"It should be written upon the conscience as with a pen of iron upon a rock, that he who disregards mercy, compassion, and righteousness, he who neglects the poor, who ignores the needs of suffering humanity, who is not kind and courteous, is so conducting himself that God cannot co-operate with him in the development of character. The culture of the mind and heart is more easily accomplished when we feel such tender sympathy for others that we bestow our benefits and privileges to relieve their necessities. Getting and holding all that we can for ourselves tends to poverty of soul. But all the attributes of Christ await the reception of those who will do the very work that God has appointed them to do, working in Christ's lines. 6T 262.1"
"He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?"
Both passages emphasize the importance of justice, mercy, and humility in one's relationship with God and others. The EGW passage expands on these themes, connecting them to character development and God's cooperation.
"Whoso stoppeth his ears at the cry of the poor, he also shall cry himself, but shall not be heard."
Both passages connect neglecting the poor with negative consequences. Proverbs 21:13 states that those who ignore the poor will not be heard when they cry out, while the EGW passage suggests that neglecting the poor hinders character development and God's cooperation.
"Learn to do well; seek judgment, relieve the oppressed, judge the fatherless, plead for the widow."
Both passages advocate for helping the oppressed and vulnerable. Isaiah 1:17 specifically mentions relieving the oppressed, judging the fatherless, and pleading for the widow, while the EGW passage speaks more broadly about disregarding mercy, compassion, and righteousness.
"***** Good works cost us a sacrifice, but it is in this very sacrifice that they provide discipline. These obligations bring us into conflict with natural feelings and propensities, and in fulfilling them we gain victory after victory over the objectionable traits of our characters. The warfare goes on, and thus we grow in grace. Thus we reflect the likeness of Christ and are prepared for a place among the blessed in the kingdom of God. 6T 262.3"
"Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world."
Both passages connect good works with spiritual growth and purity. James 1:27 defines pure religion as visiting the afflicted and keeping oneself unspotted, while the EGW passage emphasizes the disciplinary aspect of good works and their role in reflecting Christ's likeness.
"For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love."
Both passages discuss the relationship between faith, love, and good works, and how these contribute to spiritual growth and reflecting Christ's character. Galatians 5:6 speaks of faith working through love, while the EGW passage describes good works as a sacrifice that leads to victory over negative traits and growth in grace.
"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven."
Both passages connect good works with reflecting God's character. Matthew 5:16 encourages believers to let their light shine through good works, so others may glorify God. The EGW passage describes good works as a means of reflecting Christ's likeness and preparing for the kingdom of God.