Such dishonor God, and bring the religion of Christ into disrepute. They have not true love for God, nor for their companions and children. Their affections have become morbid. But vain amusements will never correct the minds of such. They need the transforming influence of the Spirit of God in order to be happy. They need to be benefited by the mediation of Christ, in order to realize consolation, divine and substantial. “For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile: let him eschew evil, and do good; let him seek peace, and ensue it. For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and His ears are open unto their prayers: but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil.” Those who have an experimental knowledge of this scripture are truly happy. They consider the approbation of Heaven of more worth than any earthly amusement; Christ in them the hope of glory will be health to the body and strength to …
"If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen?"
EGW directly quotes 1 Peter 3:10-12, making the connection explicit. She then elaborates on the practical implications of living according to this scripture.
"For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace."
Both passages contrast a focus on worldly things with a focus on spiritual things. EGW describes those who are unhappy and need the Spirit of God, while Romans 8:6 states that being carnally minded is death, but being spiritually minded is life and peace.
"others ever before them. Never should one be exalted to a responsible position merely because he desires it. Those only should be chosen who are qualified for the position. Those who are to bear responsibilities should first be proved and give evidence that they are free from jealousy, that they will not take a dislike to this or that one, while they have a few favored friends and take no notice of others. God grant that all may move just right in that institution. 1T 566.3"
"And let these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a deacon, being found blameless."
Both passages discuss the importance of proving individuals before placing them in positions of responsibility. The EGW passage expands on the qualities to look for, but the core principle is directly related to 1 Timothy 3:10.
"Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business."
Acts 6:3 describes the selection of men of good reputation, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom, for a specific task. The EGW passage echoes this principle by emphasizing the need to choose qualified individuals for responsible positions, suggesting a direct connection in the underlying principle of selecting capable and virtuous leaders.
"For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work."
The EGW passage warns against jealousy and favoritism in leadership, while James 3:16 speaks of the chaos caused by envy and strife. Both passages connect negative emotions with negative outcomes, establishing a thematic parallel.