"Those placed in leading positions should be men who have sufficient breadth of mind to appreciate persons of cultivated intellect and to recompense them proportionately to the responsibilities they bear. True, those who engage in the work of God should not do so merely for the wages they receive, but rather for the honor of God, for the advancement of His cause, and to obtain imperishable riches. At the same time we should not expect that those who are capable of doing with exactness and thoroughness work that requires thought and painstaking effort should receive no greater compensation than the less skillful workman. A true estimate must be placed upon talent. Those who cannot appreciate good work and true ability should not be managers in our institutions, for their influence would tend to circumscribe the work and to bring it down to a low level. 5T 551.1"
"For the scripture saith, Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, The labourer is worthy of his reward."
EGW directly alludes to the principle found in 1 Timothy 5:18, that laborers are worthy of their reward, when discussing fair compensation for those working in God's cause.
"And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;"
Both passages touch on the idea of working wholeheartedly and with dedication. Colossians 3:23 encourages doing everything as unto the Lord, while EGW emphasizes that those in God's work should act for His honor and the advancement of His cause.
"the work may require a greater outlay of means, but it will be economy in the end; for while it is essential that economy be exercised in everything possible, it will be found that the efforts to save means by employing those who will work for low wages, and whose labor corresponds in character with their wages, will result in loss. The work will be retarded and the cause belittled. Brethren, you may economize as much as you please in your personal affairs, in building your houses, in arranging your clothing, in providing your food, and in your general expenses; but do not bring this economy to bear upon the work of God in such a way as to hinder men of ability and true moral worth from engaging in it. 5T 551.2"
"But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you."
Both passages address priorities. EGW warns against misplaced economy that hinders God's work, while Matthew 6:33 urges seeking God's kingdom first. The connection lies in prioritizing spiritual matters over material savings.