"***** Chapter 102—Sketch of Experience From December 19, 1866 to April 25, 1867 Having become fully satisfied that my husband would not recover from his protracted sickness while remaining inactive, and that the time had fully come for me to go forth and bear my testimony to the people, I decided, contrary to the judgment and advice of the church at Battle Creek, of which we were members at that time, to venture a tour in northern Michigan, with my husband in his extremely feeble condition, in the severest cold of winter. It required no small degree of moral courage and faith in God to bring my mind to the decision to risk so much, especially as I stood alone, with the influence of the church, including those at the head of the work at Battle Creek, against me. 1T 570"
"But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God."
Both passages describe a person's unwavering commitment to their mission despite opposition and personal risk. Paul's statement in Acts 20:24 reflects a similar spirit of dedication to spreading the gospel, even in the face of adversity, as Ellen White's decision to travel and minister despite her husband's illness and the church's disapproval.
"The Lord bless thee, and keep thee:"
The EGW passage directly invokes a blessing, similar to the priestly blessing in Numbers 6:24. While not a direct quote, the intent and wording strongly suggest an allusion.
But I knew that I had a work to do, and it seemed to me that Satan was determined to keep me from it. I had waited long for our captivity to be turned and feared that precious souls would be lost if I remained longer from the work. To remain longer from the field seemed to me worse than death, and should we move out we could but perish. So, on the 19th of December, 1866, we left Battle Creek in a snowstorm for Wright, Ottawa County, Michigan. My husband stood the long and severe journey of ninety miles much better than I feared, and seemed quite as well when we reached our old home at Brother Root's as when we left Battle Creek. We were kindly received by this dear family and as tenderly cared for as Christian parents can care for invalid children. 1T 570.3 We found this church in a very low condition. With a large portion of its members the seeds of disunion and dissatisfaction with one another were taking deep root, and a worldly spirit was taking possession of them. And notwithstand…
"But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God."
Both passages highlight a commitment to ministry despite personal hardship and a sense of urgency to fulfill a divine calling. EGW's statement about her determination to continue her work despite difficulties echoes Paul's sentiment in Acts 20:24, where he prioritizes finishing his ministry above his own life.