None should be deceived in thinking that in connecting themselves with the work of God in Battle Creek they will have less care, less hard labor, and fewer trials. Satan is most active where the most is being done to advance the truth and to save souls. He understands human nature, and he will not let these men alone if there is any prospect of their becoming more like Christ and more useful workers in the cause of God. Satan lays his plans to press his temptations upon the very men whom God has signified that He would accept to act a part in connection with His work. It is Satan's study to know how he can best war against and defeat the purposes of God. He is acquainted with the weak as well as the strong points in the characters of men. And in a subtle manner he works with all deceivableness of unrighteousness to thwart the purposes of God by assailing the weak points in their characters; and when this is done, the way is prepared for him to attack and overcome the stronger points. H…
"Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:"
Both passages emphasize Satan's active opposition to those working for God. The EGW passage describes Satan's tactics to tempt and defeat those involved in God's work, while the 1 Peter verse warns believers to be vigilant against the devil's attacks. The thematic parallel is strong and clear.
"The enemy will seize everything possible to use in his favor and to destroy souls. Testimonies have been borne in favor of individuals occupying important positions. They commence well to lift the burdens and act their part in connection with the work of God. But Satan pursues them with his temptations, and they are finally overcome. As others look upon their wrong course, Satan suggests to their minds that there must be a mistake in the testimonies given for these persons, else these men would not have proved themselves unworthy to bear a part in the work of God. 3T 469.2"
"And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light."
The EGW passage discusses how Satan uses the failures of individuals in leadership to undermine faith in testimonies and the work of God. This aligns with the concept in 2 Corinthians 11:14, where Satan disguises himself as an angel of light to deceive. The connection is that Satan uses deception to achieve his goals.