"There are great laws that govern the world of nature, and spiritual things are controlled by principles equally certain. The means for an end must be employed if the desired results are to be attained. God has appointed to every man his work according to his ability. It is by education and practice that persons are to be qualified to meet any emergency which may arise, and wise planning is needed to place each one in his proper sphere, that he may obtain an experience which will fit him to bear responsibility. 5T 724.2"
"And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one; to every man according to his several ability; and straightway took his journey."
Both passages emphasize that God gives gifts/abilities to individuals according to their capacity. Matthew 25:15 (Parable of the Talents) is a clear illustration of this principle, and the EGW quote directly echoes this concept, stating that God appoints work to each person according to their ability.
"But while education, training, and the counsel of those of experience are all essential, the workers should be taught that they are not to rely wholly upon any man's judgment. As God's free agents, all should ask wisdom of Him. When the learner depends wholly upon another's thoughts, and goes no further than to accept his plans, he sees only through that man's eyes and is, so far, only an echo of another. God deals with men as responsible beings. He will work by His Spirit through the mind He has put in man, if man will only give Him a chance to work and will recognize His dealings. He designs that each shall use his mind and conscience for himself. He does not intend that one man shall become the shadow of another, uttering only another's sentiments. 5T 724.3"
"If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him."
The EGW passage directly encourages seeking wisdom from God, echoing the core message of James 1:5.