Some who make a high profession do not understand the sin of self-abuse and its sure results. Long- established habit has blinded their understanding. They do not realize the exceeding sinfulness of this degrading sin, which is enervating the system and destroying their brain nerve power. Moral principle is exceedingly weak when it conflicts with established habit. Solemn messages from heaven cannot forcibly impress the heart that is not fortified against the indulgence of this degrading vice. The sensitive nerves of the brain have lost their healthy tone by morbid excitation to gratify an unnatural desire for sensual indulgence. The brain nerves which communicate with the entire system are the only medium through which Heaven can communicate to man and affect his inmost life. Whatever disturbs the circulation of the electric currents in the nervous system lessens the strength of the vital powers, and the result is a deadening of the sensibilities of the mind. In consideration of these…
"But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members."
Both passages address the struggle against sin and its effects on the individual. Romans 7:23 speaks of the internal conflict between the law of the mind and the law of sin, while the EGW passage describes the effects of self-abuse on the mind and body, hindering spiritual communication. The connection is thematic, dealing with the battle against sinful desires and their consequences.