From the commencement of our labors we have been called to bear a plain, pointed testimony, to reprove wrongs and spare not. And all the way there have been those who have stood in opposition to our testimony, and have followed after to speak smooth things, daub with untempered mortar, and destroy the influence of our labors. The Lord would rein us up to bear reproof, and then individuals would step right in between us and the people to make our testimony of no effect. Many visions have been given to the effect that we must not shun to declare the counsel of the Lord, but must occupy a position to stir up the people of God, for they are asleep in their sins. But few have sympathized with us, while many have sympathized with the wrong and with those who have been reproved. These things crushed us, and we felt that we had no testimony to bear in the church. We knew not in whom to confide. As all these things forced themselves upon us, hope died within us. We retired to rest about midnigh…
"These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no man despise thee."
The EGW passage describes her calling to deliver a pointed testimony and reprove wrongs, which aligns with the principle in Titus 2:15 to speak, exhort, and rebuke with authority. The EGW passage illustrates the practical application of this principle in her own ministry, facing opposition and challenges in delivering God's message.
"My husband sent for Brethren Amadon, Kellogg, and C. Smith. Their fervent prayers were heard, relief came, and I was taken off in vision. Then I was shown that we had a work to do, that we must still bear our testimony, straight and pointed. Individuals were presented before me who had shunned the pointed testimony. I saw the influence of their teachings upon God's people. 1T 247.3"
"Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much."
Both passages highlight the power of fervent prayer. The EGW passage describes a situation where fervent prayer led to relief and a vision, while James 5:16 emphasizes the effectiveness of such prayer for healing. The connection is thematic, focusing on the efficacy of prayer.