Some ministers at the very commencement of a series of meetings become very zealous, take on burdens which God does not require them to bear, exhaust their strength in singing and in long, loud praying and talking, and then are worn out and must go home to rest. What was accomplished in that effort? Literally nothing. The laborers had spirit and zeal, but lacked understanding. They manifested no wise generalship. They rode upon the chariot of feeling, but there was not one victory gained against the enemy. His stronghold was not taken. 1T 647.2 I was shown that ministers of Christ should discipline themselves for the warfare. Greater wisdom is required in generalship in the work of God than is required of the generals engaged in national battles. Ministers of God's choosing are engaged in a great work. They are warring not merely against men, but against Satan and his angels. Wise generalship is required here. They must become Bible students and give themselves wholly to the work. When…
"I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air:"
Both passages discuss the importance of purposeful and disciplined action in spiritual endeavors. Paul's analogy of running and fighting purposefully aligns with EGW's emphasis on wise generalship and avoiding wasted effort.
"Hast thou found honey? eat so much as is sufficient for thee, lest thou be filled therewith, and vomit it."
Both passages warn against excess and the importance of moderation. The Proverbs verse uses the analogy of honey, while the EGW passage uses the example of ministers exhausting themselves. The underlying principle of avoiding overdoing things is present in both.
"And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will."
Both passages discuss the qualities of a good religious leader, particularly gentleness, patience, and the ability to teach and guide those who are misled. EGW's passage emphasizes the need for ministers to be wise and disciplined, while 2 Timothy focuses on gentleness and patience in instructing opponents. Both passages address the spiritual warfare against the devil.