"Satan is working to crowd himself in everywhere. He would put asunder very friends. There are men who are ever talking and gossiping and bearing false witness, who sow the seeds of discord and engender strife. Heaven looks upon this class as Satan's most efficient servants. But the man who is injured is in a far less dangerous position than when fawned upon and extolled for a few of his efforts which appear successful. The commendation of apparent friends is more dangerous than reproach. 4T 607.2"
"A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren."
The EGW passage directly echoes the sentiment and specific phrase 'soweth discord' from Proverbs 6:19, making it more than just a thematic parallel.
"Every man who praises himself brushes the luster from his best efforts. A truly noble character will not stoop to resent the false accusations of enemies; every word spoken falls harmless, for it strengthens that which it cannot overthrow. The Lord would have His people closely united with Himself, the God of patience and love. All should manifest in their lives the love of Christ. Let none venture to belittle the reputation or the position of another; this is egotism. It is saying: “I am so much better and more capable than you that God gives me the preference. You are not of much account.” 4T 607.3"
"Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves."
The EGW passage directly reflects the principle of humility and esteeming others better than oneself, as taught in Philippians 2:3. The condemnation of self-praise and belittling others aligns strongly with the verse's message.