EGW → Biblical Foundation
Select an Ellen White book from the sidebar to see each passage mapped to the Bible verses it amplifies, cites, or echoes.
Scripture Index
Ellen White & Bible Cross-Reference
Psalms 91:1
"He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty."
"“Knock.” We come to God by special invitation, and He waits to welcome us to His audience chamber. The first disciples who followed Jesus were not satisfied with a hurried conversation with Him by the way; they said, “Rabbi, ... where dwellest Thou? ... They came and saw where He dwelt, and abode with Him that day.” John 1:38, 39 . So we may be admitted into closest intimacy and communion with God. “He that dwelleth in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.” Psalm 91:1 . Let those who desire the blessing of God knock and wait at the door of mercy with firm assurance, saying, For Thou, O Lord, hast said, “Everyone that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.” MB 131.2"
Ellen White directly references Psalms 91:1 in this passage.
"her wings: so the Lord alone did lead him, and there was no strange god with him.” Deuteronomy 32:9-12 . Thus He brought the Israelites unto Himself, that they might dwell as under the shadow of the Most High. Miraculously preserved from the perils of the wilderness wandering, they were finally established in the Land of Promise as a favored nation. PK 17.1"
Both passages speak of dwelling under the shadow of the Most High, suggesting divine protection and care.
"We have no complaints to make of our sufferings in those days of close want and perplexity, which made the exercise of faith necessary. They were the happiest days of our lives. There we learned the simplicity of faith. There, while in affliction we tested and proved the Lord. He was our consolation. He was to us like the shadow of a great rock in a weary land. It is unfortunate for you, my brother, and for our young ministers generally, that you and they have not had a similar experience in privation, in trial, and in need; for such an experience would be worth to you more than houses or lands, gold or silver. 3T 318.1"
The phrase 'shadow of a great rock in a weary land' is a clear allusion to the imagery in Psalms 91:1, although not a direct quote. The context of finding refuge and comfort in God during hardship strengthens the connection.
"The world see the very class whom they have mocked and derided, and desired to exterminate, pass unharmed through pestilence, tempest, and earthquake. He who is to the transgressors of His law a devouring fire, is to His people a safe pavilion. GC 654.3"
The EGW passage describes God's protection of His people while being a consuming fire to transgressors. This echoes the sentiment of Psalm 91:1, where dwelling in God's presence provides safety.
"It was not on the cross only that Christ sacrificed Himself for humanity. As He “went about doing good” ( Acts 10:38 ), every day's experience was an outpouring of His life. In one way only could such a life be sustained. Jesus lived in dependence upon God and communion with Him. To the secret place of the Most High, under the shadow of the Almighty, men now and then repair; they abide for a season, and the result is manifest in noble deeds; then their faith fails, the communion is interrupted, and the lifework marred. But the life of Jesus was a life of constant trust, sustained by continual communion; and His service for heaven and earth was without failure or faltering. Ed 80.3"
EGW directly alludes to Psalm 91:1 by mentioning "the secret place of the Most High, under the shadow of the Almighty."
"Thus in the language of one who has divine authority, Christ gives His elect church into the Father's arms. As a consecrated high priest He intercedes for His people. As a faithful shepherd He gathers His flock under the shadow of the Almighty, in the strong and sure refuge. For Him there waits the last battle with Satan, and He goes forth to meet it. DA 680.4"
The phrase 'under the shadow of the Almighty' in the EGW passage is a direct allusion to Psalm 91:1. The context of refuge and protection further strengthens the connection.
God had provided a way of escape for His servant in this hour of peril. A vigilant eye had followed Luther's movements, and a true and noble heart had resolved upon his rescue. It was plain that Rome would be satisfied with nothing short of his death; only by concealment could he be preserved from the jaws of the lion. God gave wisdom to Frederick of Saxony to devise a plan for the Reformer's preservation. With the co-operation of true friends the elector's purpose was carried out, and Luther was effectually hidden from friends and foes. Upon his homeward journey he was seized, separated from his attendants, and hurriedly conveyed through the forest to the castle of Wartburg, an isolated mountain fortress. Both his seizure and his concealment were so involved in mystery that even Frederick himself for a long time knew not whither he had been conducted. This ignorance was not without design; so long as the elector knew nothing of Luther's whereabouts, he could reveal nothing. He satisfi…
The EGW passage describes God's protection of Luther through Frederick's plan, which thematically aligns with the idea of dwelling in the secret place of the Most High and finding refuge under His shadow, as described in Psalm 91:1.
Psalms 91:2
"I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust."
"“From the time that we stepped on board the train, I felt perfectly satisfied that I was in the way of duty. I have had sweet communion with my Saviour, and have felt that He is my refuge and my fortress, and that no harm can come to me while engaged in the work which He has given me to do. I have an abiding trust in the promises of God, and enjoy that peace which comes only from Jesus.... LS 268.4"
The EGW passage explicitly uses the phrase "my refuge and my fortress" which is directly quoted from Psalm 91:2, indicating a clear allusion.
Psalms 91:4
"He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler."
"Thus God will destroy the wicked from off the earth. But the righteous will be preserved in the midst of these commotions, as Noah was preserved in the ark. God will be their refuge, and under His wings shall they trust. Says the psalmist: “Because thou hast made the Lord, which is my refuge, even the Most High, thy habitation; there shall no evil befall thee.” Psalm 91:9, 10 . “In the time of trouble He shall hide me in His pavilion: in the secret of His tabernacle shall He hide me.” Psalm 27:5 . God's promise is, “Because he hath set his love upon Me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known My name.” Psalm 91:14 . PP 110.3"
EGW directly quotes and references Psalm 91:9, 10, 14 and Psalm 27:5, connecting the idea of God's protection during times of trouble to the preservation of the righteous, similar to Noah in the ark. The connection to Psalm 91:4 is also valid as it speaks of refuge under God's wings.
"Satan is now using every device in this sealing time to keep the minds of God's people from the present truth and to cause them to waver. I saw a covering that God was drawing over His people to protect them in the time of trouble; and every soul that was decided on the truth and was pure in heart was to be covered with the covering of the Almighty. EW 43.2"
Both passages use the imagery of being covered by God for protection. Psalm 91:4 uses the imagery of feathers and wings, while EGW uses the imagery of a covering. The core idea of divine protection and refuge is shared.
"But God's providence still shielded His servant. The man who for a whole lifetime had stood boldly in defense of the truth, in daily peril of his life, was not to fall a victim of the hatred of its foes. Wycliffe had never sought to shield himself, but the Lord had been his protector; and now, when his enemies felt sure of their prey, God's hand removed him beyond their reach. In his church at Lutterworth, as he was about to dispense the communion, he fell, stricken with palsy, and in a short time yielded up his life. GC 92.4"
The EGW passage describes God's protection of Wycliffe throughout his life, shielding him from his enemies until his natural death. This resonates with the theme of divine protection and refuge found in Psalm 91:4, where God is described as a shield and buckler. The connection is a thematic parallel, emphasizing God's care for his faithful servants.
"The eagle of the Alps is sometimes beaten down by the tempest into the narrow defiles of the mountains. Storm clouds shut in this mighty bird of the forest, their dark masses separating her from the sunny heights where she has made her home. Her efforts to escape seem fruitless. She dashes to and fro, beating the air with her strong wings, and waking the mountain echoes with her cries. At length, with a note of triumph, she darts upward, and, piercing the clouds, is once more in the clear sunlight, with the darkness and tempest far beneath. So we may be surrounded with difficulties, discouragement, and darkness. Falsehood, calamity, injustice, shut us in. There are clouds that we cannot dispel. We battle with circumstances in vain. There is one, and but one, way of escape. The mists and fogs cling to the earth; beyond the clouds God's light is shining. Into the sunlight of His presence we may rise on the wings of faith. Ed 118.2"
The EGW passage uses the imagery of an eagle rising above a storm to illustrate faith in God during difficult times. While not a direct quote, it shares a thematic parallel with Psalm 91:4, which speaks of finding refuge under God's wings.
"David was caused to feel that he had missed his path. Far better would it have been for him to find refuge in God's strong fortresses of the mountains than with the avowed enemies of Jehovah and His people. But the Lord in His great mercy did not punish this error of His servant by leaving him to himself in his distress and perplexity; for though David, losing his grasp on divine power, had faltered and turned aside from the path of strict integrity, it was still the purpose of his heart to be true to God. While Satan and his host were busy helping the adversaries of God and of Israel to plan against a king who had forsaken God, the angels of the Lord were working to deliver David from the peril into which he had fallen. Heavenly messengers moved upon the Philistine princes to protest against the presence of David and his force with the army in the approaching conflict. PP 690.2"
The EGW passage describes God's protection of David even when David makes mistakes, while Psalm 91:4 speaks generally of God's protection. The connection is thematic, focusing on divine protection, but not a direct allusion.
"trouble succeeding another as in a moment. It is God that shields His creatures and hedges them in from the power of the destroyer. But the Christian world have shown contempt for the law of Jehovah; and the Lord will do just what He has declared that He would—He will withdraw His blessings from the earth and remove His protecting care from those who are rebelling against His law and teaching and forcing others to do the same. Satan has control of all whom God does not especially guard. He will favor and prosper some in order to further his own designs, and he will bring trouble upon others and lead men to believe that it is God who is afflicting them. GC 589.2"
Both passages speak of God's protection and shielding of His people. However, the EGW passage focuses on the withdrawal of that protection due to disobedience, while the Psalm focuses on the comfort and security found under God's wings. The connection is thematic but not strong.
Psalms 91:6
"Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday."
"“The angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear Him, and delivereth them.” Psalm 34:7 . God commissions His angels to save His chosen ones from calamity, to guard them from “the pestilence that walketh in darkness” and “the destruction that wasteth at noonday.” Psalm 91:6 . Again and again have angels talked with men as a man speaketh with a friend, and led them to places of security. Again and again have the encouraging words of angels renewed the drooping spirits of the faithful and, carrying their minds above the things of earth, caused them to behold by faith the white robes, the crowns, the palm branches of victory, which overcomers will receive when they surround the great white throne. AA 153.2"
Ellen White directly references Psalms 91:6 in this passage.
Psalms 91:9
"Because thou hast made the Lord, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy habitation;"
"“Because thou hast made the Lord, which is my refuge, Even the Most High, thy habitation; There shall no evil befall thee, Neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling.” Psalm 91:9, 10 . PK 538.3"
EGW directly quotes Psalm 91:9.
Psalms 91:10
"There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling."
"“Because thou hast made the Lord, which is my refuge, Even the Most High, thy habitation; There shall no evil befall thee, Neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling.” Psalm 91:9, 10 . PK 538.3"
EGW directly quotes Psalm 91:10.
"The train had run about three miles from Jackson when its motion became very violent, jerking backward and forward, and finally stopping. I opened the window, and saw one car raised nearly upon end. I heard agonizing groans, and there was great confusion. The engine had been thrown from the track; but the car we were in was on the track, and was separated about one hundred feet from those before it. The baggage car was not much damaged, and our large trunk of books was uninjured. The second-class car was crushed, and the pieces, with the passengers, were thrown on both sides of the track. The car in which we tried to get a seat was much broken, and one end was raised upon the heap of ruins. The coupling did not break, but the car we were in was unfastened from the one before it, as if an angel had separated them. Four were killed or mortally wounded, and many were much injured. We could but feel that God had sent an angel to preserve our lives. 1T 95.1"
Both passages speak of divine protection from harm. The Psalm promises general protection, while EGW describes a specific instance where she believes God intervened to save her life during a train accident. The connection lies in the theme of divine protection in the face of danger.
Psalms 91:11
"For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways."
"“He shall give His angels charge concerning Thee: And in their hands they shall bear Thee up, Lest at any time Thou dash Thy foot against a stone.” DA 124.2"
The EGW passage is a direct quote from Psalm 91:11.
"It is only through the grace of God that we can make a right use of this endowment. There is nothing in us of ourselves by which we can influence others for good. If we realize our helplessness and our need of divine power, we shall not trust to ourselves. We know not what results a day, an hour, or a moment may determine, and never should we begin the day without committing our ways to our heavenly Father. His angels are appointed to watch over us, and if we put ourselves under their guardianship, then in every time of danger they will be at our right hand. When unconsciously we are in danger of exerting a wrong influence, the angels will be by our side, prompting us to a better course, choosing our words for us, and influencing our actions. Thus our influence may be a silent, unconscious, but mighty power in drawing others to Christ and the heavenly world. COL 341.2"
The EGW passage directly references the concept of angels watching over us and protecting us, which is a clear allusion to Psalm 91:11.
"We need to understand better than we do the mission of the angel visitants. It would be well to consider that in all our work we have the co-operation and care of heavenly beings. Invisible armies of light and power attend the meek and lowly ones who believe and claim the promises of God. Cherubim and seraphim and angels that excel in strength—ten thousand times ten thousand and thousands of thousands—stand at His right hand, “all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation.” Hebrews 1:14 . COL 176.3"
EGW directly quotes Hebrews 1:14, which supports the idea of ministering spirits. The Psalm reinforces the general concept of angelic protection, making the connection strong.
"The heavenly sentinels, faithful to their trust, continue their watch. Though a general decree has fixed the time when commandment keepers may be put to death, their enemies will in some cases anticipate the decree, and before the time specified, will endeavor to take their lives. But none can pass the mighty guardians stationed about every faithful soul. Some are assailed in their flight from the cities and villages; but the swords raised against them break and fall powerless as a straw. Others are defended by angels in the form of men of war. GC 631.1"
The EGW passage illustrates the principle of angelic protection found in Psalm 91:11, where angels are charged to protect believers.
"When Satan quoted the promise, “He shall give His angels charge over Thee,” he omitted the words, “to keep Thee in all Thy ways;” that is, in all the ways of God's choosing. Jesus refused to go outside the path of obedience. While manifesting perfect trust in His Father, He would not place Himself, unbidden, in a position that would necessitate the interposition of His Father to save Him from death. He would not force Providence to come to His rescue, and thus fail of giving man an example of trust and submission. DA 125.3"
EGW directly quotes and analyzes Psalm 91:11, focusing on Satan's omission of a key phrase. This is a clear and direct allusion.
"Angels of heaven shielded Jonathan and his attendant, angels fought by their side, and the Philistines fell before them. The earth trembled as though a great multitude with horsemen and chariots were approaching. Jonathan recognized the tokens of divine aid, and even the Philistines knew that God was working for the deliverance of Israel. Great fear seized upon the host, both in the field and in the garrison. In the confusion, mistaking their own soldiers for enemies, the Philistines began to slay one another. PP 623.3"
The EGW passage explicitly mentions angels fighting alongside Jonathan and his attendant. Psalm 91:11 speaks of God giving his angels charge over people. The connection is strong and direct, supporting the thematic parallel.
"When nearly all had left for their staterooms, I continued on deck. The captain had provided me a reclining cane chair, and blankets to serve as a protection from the chilly air. I knew that if I went into the cabin I should be sick. Night came on, darkness covered the sea, and the plunging waves were pitching our ship fearfully. This great vessel was as a mere chip upon the merciless waters; but she was guarded and protected on her course by the heavenly angels, commissioned of God to do His bidding. Had it not been for this, we might have been swallowed up in a moment, leaving not a trace of that splendid ship. But that God who feeds the ravens, who numbers the hairs of our heads, will not forget us. 4T 288.3"
The EGW passage speaks of being guarded and protected by angels, which aligns with the theme of angelic protection found in Psalm 91:11.
"In the time of trouble just before the coming of Christ, the righteous will be preserved through the ministration of heavenly angels; but there will be no security for the transgressor of God's law. Angels cannot then protect those who are disregarding one of the divine precepts. PP 256.1"
The EGW passage directly echoes the principle of angelic protection for the righteous, as described in Psalm 91:11, while also adding a condition regarding obedience to God's law.
"Angels are sent on missions of mercy to the children of God. To Abraham, with promises of blessing; to the gates of Sodom, to rescue righteous Lot from its fiery doom; to Elijah, as he was about to perish from weariness and hunger in the desert; to Elisha, with chariots and horses of fire surrounding the little town where he was shut in by his foes; to Daniel, while seeking divine wisdom in the court of a heathen king, or abandoned to become the lions’ prey; to Peter, doomed to death in Herod's dungeon; to the prisoners at Philippi; to Paul and his companions in the night of tempest on the sea; to open the mind of Cornelius to receive the gospel; to dispatch Peter with the message of salvation to the Gentile stranger—thus holy angels have, in all ages, ministered to God's people. GC 512.1"
Both passages speak of angelic protection. Psalm 91:11 is a general promise, while EGW provides specific biblical examples of this protection.
"Thus God's people, exposed to the deceptive power and unsleeping malice of the prince of darkness, and in conflict with all the forces of evil, are assured of the unceasing guardianship of heavenly angels. Nor is such assurance given without need. If God has granted to His children promise of grace and protection, it is because there are mighty agencies of evil to be met—agencies numerous, determined, and untiring, of whose malignity and power none can safely be ignorant or unheeding. GC 513.1"
Both passages discuss the protection of God's people through angels. Psalm 91:11 is a general promise, while EGW provides a broader context of spiritual warfare and the need for such protection.
"In the midst of exile and hardship their love and faith waxed strong. They trusted the Lord's promises, and He did not fail them in time of need. His angels were by their side, to encourage and support them. And when God's hand seemed pointing them across the sea, to a land where they might found for themselves a state, and leave to their children the precious heritage of religious liberty, they went forward, without shrinking, in the path of providence. GC 291.1"
Both passages refer to the protection and support provided by angels. EGW's passage speaks of angels encouraging and supporting the Pilgrims, while Psalm 91:11 states that God gives angels charge over believers. The EGW passage illustrates the principle of divine protection through angels.
"Then our past life was presented before me, and I was shown that Satan had sought in various ways to destroy our usefulness; that many times he had laid his plans to remove us from the work of God; he had come in different ways, and through different agencies, to accomplish his purposes; but through the ministration of holy angels he had been defeated. I saw that in our journeying from place to place, he had frequently placed his evil angels in our path to cause accidents which would destroy our lives; but holy angels were sent upon the ground to deliver. Several accidents have placed my husband and myself in great peril, and our preservation has been wonderful. I saw that we had been the special objects of Satan's attacks, because of our interest in and connection with the work of God. As I saw the great care which God has every moment for those who love and fear Him, I was inspired with confidence and trust in God, and felt reproved for my lack of faith. 1T 346.2"
Both passages speak of angelic protection. Psalm 91:11 is a general statement of God's protection through angels, while EGW's passage provides a specific instance of that protection. The thematic overlap is clear and strong.
"The messengers went on their way, intent upon taking David's life; but One greater than Saul controlled them. They were met by unseen angels, as was Balaam when he was on his way to curse Israel. They began to utter prophetic sayings of what would occur in the future, and proclaimed the glory and majesty of Jehovah. Thus God overruled the wrath of man and manifested His power to restrain evil, while He walled in His servant by a guard of angels. PP 653.2"
The EGW passage describes angels protecting David. Psalm 91:11 speaks of God giving his angels charge over someone to protect them. The common theme is divine protection through angels.
"tried to get a seat was much broken, and one end was raised upon the heap of ruins. Four were killed or mortally wounded, and many were much injured. We could but feel that God had sent an angel to preserve our lives. LS 153.3 We returned to the home of Brother Cyrenius Smith, near Jackson, and the next day took the train for Wisconsin. Our visit to that State was blessed of God. Souls were converted as the result of our efforts. The Lord strengthened me to endure the tedious journey. LS 154.1"
The EGW passage describes a situation where the author felt divinely protected from harm, which aligns with the Psalm's promise of angelic protection. While not a direct quote or explicit allusion, the theme of divine protection through angels is present in both.
"As in the days of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, so in the closing period of earth's history the Lord will work mightily in behalf of those who stand steadfastly for the right. He who walked with the Hebrew worthies in the fiery furnace will be with His followers wherever they are. His abiding presence will comfort and sustain. In the midst of the time of trouble—trouble such as has not been since there was a nation—His chosen ones will stand unmoved. Satan with all the hosts of evil cannot destroy the weakest of God's saints. Angels that excel in strength will protect them, and in their behalf Jehovah will reveal Himself as a “God of gods,” able to save to the uttermost those who have put their trust in Him. PK 513.1"
The EGW passage mentions angels protecting God's saints, which aligns with the theme of angelic protection found in Psalm 91:11. The connection is thematic rather than a direct quote or explicit allusion.
Your intercourse with the sick is an exhausting process and would gradually dry up the very springs of life if there were no change, no opportunity for recreation, and if angels of God did not guard and protect you. If you could see the many perils through which you are conducted safely every day by these messengers of heaven, gratitude would spring up in your hearts and find expression from your lips. If you make God your strength, you may, under the most discouraging circumstances, attain a height and breadth of Christian perfection which you hardly think it possible to reach. Your thoughts may be elevated, you may have noble aspirations, clear perceptions of truth, and purposes of action which shall raise you above all sordid motives. 4T 567.3 Both thought and action will be necessary if you would attain to perfection of character. While brought in contact with the world, you should be on your guard that you do not seek too ardently for the applause of men and live for their opinion…
The EGW passage explicitly mentions angels guarding and protecting individuals, which is a direct allusion to Psalm 91:11, where God gives his angels charge over people to keep them safe.
The mother succeeded in concealing the child for three months. Then, finding that she could no longer keep him safely, she prepared a little ark of rushes, making it watertight by means of slime and pitch; and laying the babe therein, she placed it among the flags at the river's brink. She dared not remain to guard it, lest the child's life and her own should be forfeited; but his sister, Miriam, lingered near, apparently indifferent, but anxiously watching to see what would become of her little brother. And there were other watchers. The mother's earnest prayers had committed her child to the care of God; and angels, unseen, hovered above his lowly resting place. Angels directed Pharaoh's daughter thither. Her curiosity was excited by the little basket, and as she looked upon the beautiful child within, she read the story at a glance. The tears of the babe awakened her compassion, and her sympathies went out to the unknown mother who had resorted to this means to preserve the life of …
The EGW passage describes angels watching over Moses, which aligns with the general theme of Psalm 91:11 about God's angels protecting people. While not a direct quote or explicit allusion, the thematic connection is present and meaningful.
"I saw that my husband and myself could not receive as much benefit there as could those of different experience and faith. Said the angel: “God has not designed that the mind of His servant, whom He has chosen for a special purpose, to do a special work, should be controlled by any living man, for that is His prerogative alone.” Angels of God kept us while we were at ——. They were round about us, sustaining us every hour. But the time came when we could not benefit nor be benefited, and then the cloud of light, which had rested with us there, moved away, and we could find rest only in leaving there and going among the brethren in Rochester, where the cloud of light rested. 1T 616.1"
The EGW passage speaks of angels surrounding and sustaining her and her husband, which echoes the idea in Psalm 91:11 of God giving angels charge over someone for protection. The confidence is slightly increased due to the specific mention of angels' protective role.
"Writing “Spiritual Gifts,” Vol. 1 In the vision at Lovett's Grove, most of the matter which I had seen ten years before concerning the great controversy of the ages between Christ and Satan, was repeated, and I was instructed to write it out. I was shown that while I should have to contend with the powers of darkness, for Satan would make strong efforts to hinder me, yet I must put my trust in God, and angels would not leave me in the conflict. LS 162"
The EGW passage explicitly mentions angels protecting her during her work, which directly echoes the promise in Psalm 91:11. The verse provides a basis for her confidence in divine protection during a challenging task.
"On the day appointed for their destruction, “the Jews gathered themselves together in their cities throughout all the provinces of the king Ahasuerus, to lay hand on such as sought their hurt: and no man could withstand them; for the fear of them fell upon all people.” Angels that excel in strength had been commissioned by God to protect His people while they “stood for their lives.” Esther 9:2, 16 . PK 602.2"
Both passages describe God's protection of his people through angelic intervention. The EGW passage explicitly mentions angels protecting the Jews, while the Psalm speaks generally about God giving angels charge over individuals.
Of his deliverance from the enraged mob on one of these occasions, Wesley said: “Many endeavored to throw me down while we were going down hill on a slippery path to the town; as well judging that if I was once on the ground, I should hardly rise any more. But I made no stumble at all, nor the least slip, till I was entirely out of their hands.... Although many strove to lay hold on my collar or clothes, to pull me down, they could not fasten at all: only one got fast hold of the flap of my waistcoat, which was soon left in his hand; the other flap, in the pocket of which was a bank note, was torn but half off.... A lusty man just behind, struck at me several times, with a large oaken stick; with which if he had struck me once on the back part of my head, it would have saved him all further trouble. But every time, the blow was turned aside, I know not how; for I could not move to the right hand or left.... Another came rushing through the press, and raising his arm to strike, on a sud…
Wesley's account of his escape from the mob is interpreted as divine protection, echoing the sentiment of Psalm 91:11, where angels are charged to protect individuals. The EGW passage directly precedes the Wesley quote, suggesting she intends the connection.
The armor-bearer, who also was a man of faith and prayer, encouraged the design, and together they withdrew from the camp, secretly, lest their purpose should be opposed. With earnest prayer to the Guide of their fathers, they agreed upon a sign by which they might determine how to proceed. Then passing down into the gorge separating the two armies, they silently threaded their way, under the shadow of the cliff, and partially concealed by the mounds and ridges of the valley. Approaching the Philistine fortress, they were revealed to the view of their enemies, who said, tauntingly, “Behold, the Hebrews come forth out of the holes where they had hid themselves,” then challenged them, “Come up to us, and we will show you a thing,” meaning that they would punish the two Israelites for their daring. This challenge was the token that Jonathan and his companion had agreed to accept as evidence that the Lord would prosper their undertaking. Passing now from the sight of the Philistines, and c…
The EGW passage describes Jonathan and his armor-bearer being protected during their daring mission. Psalm 91:11 speaks of God giving his angels charge over people to protect them. While not a direct quote, the theme of divine protection during a dangerous endeavor connects the two.
"Fathers and mothers, however pressing your business, do not fail to gather your family around God's altar. Ask for the guardianship of holy angels in your home. Remember that your dear ones are exposed to temptations. Daily annoyances beset the path of young and old. Those who would live patient, loving, cheerful lives must pray. Only by receiving constant help from God can we gain the victory over self. MH 393.1"
Both passages refer to the protection of angels. The EGW passage encourages asking for the guardianship of angels in the home, while Psalm 91:11 states that God will give his angels charge over us. The connection is valid and supports the idea of seeking divine protection.
"Said the angel: “God will be glorified in the restoration of His servant to health. God has heard the prayers of His servants. His arms are beneath His afflicted servant. God has the case, and he must, although afflicted, dismiss his fears, his anxiety, his doubts and unbelief, and calmly trust in the great yet merciful God, who pities, loves, and cares for him. He will have conflicts with the enemy, but should ever be comforted with the remembrance that a stronger than the enemy has charge of him, and he need not fear. By faith rely on the evidences which God has been pleased to give, and he will gloriously triumph in God.” 1T 617.2"
The EGW passage speaks of God's care and protection, while Psalm 91:11 explicitly mentions angels being charged to protect. The connection is thematic, focusing on divine protection, but not a direct allusion.
"Fathers and mothers who make God first in their households, who teach their children that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, glorify God before angels and before men by presenting to the world a well- ordered, well-disciplined family, a family that love and obey God instead of rebelling against Him. Christ is not a stranger in their homes; His name is a household name, revered and glorified. Angels delight in a home where God reigns supreme, and the children are taught to reverence religion, the Bible, and their Creator. Such families can claim the promise: “Them that honor Me I will honor.” As from such a home the father goes forth to his daily duties, it is with a spirit softened and subdued by converse with God. He is a Christian, not only in his profession, but in trade, in all his business relations. He does his work with fidelity, knowing that the eye of God is upon him. 5T 424.2"
The EGW passage mentions angels delighting in a home where God reigns supreme. The verse speaks of God giving his angels charge over people. While not a direct quote or explicit allusion, there's a thematic connection regarding the presence and role of angels.
Psalms 91:14
"Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name."
"Thus God will destroy the wicked from off the earth. But the righteous will be preserved in the midst of these commotions, as Noah was preserved in the ark. God will be their refuge, and under His wings shall they trust. Says the psalmist: “Because thou hast made the Lord, which is my refuge, even the Most High, thy habitation; there shall no evil befall thee.” Psalm 91:9, 10 . “In the time of trouble He shall hide me in His pavilion: in the secret of His tabernacle shall He hide me.” Psalm 27:5 . God's promise is, “Because he hath set his love upon Me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known My name.” Psalm 91:14 . PP 110.3"
Ellen White directly references Psalms 91:14 in this passage.