Many flatter themselves that their desire for gain is that they may help the cause of God. Some promise that when they have gained such an amount, then they will do good with it and advance the cause of present truth. But when they have realized their expectations, they are no more ready to help the cause than before. They again pledge themselves that after they purchase that desirable house or piece of land, and pay for it, then they will do a great deal with their means to advance the work of God. But as the desire of their heart is attained, they have far less disposition than in the days of their poverty to aid in the advancement of the work of God. “He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful.” The deceitfulness of riches leads them on, step by step, until they lose all love for the truth, and yet they flatter themselves that they believe it. They lo…
"And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man’s life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth."
The EGW passage directly quotes and expands upon the principle illustrated in the parable of the sower, specifically the seed among thorns. The deceitfulness of riches choking the word is the central theme.
"For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also."
The EGW passage discusses how people's hearts are drawn to their riches, which aligns with the sentiment of Matthew 6:21.
"But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you."
The EGW passage illustrates the opposite of seeking first the kingdom of God. It shows people prioritizing material gain over spiritual matters, thus failing to follow the principle in Matthew 6:33.