"Our ideas of building and furnishing our institutions are to be molded and fashioned by a true, practical knowledge of what it means to walk humbly with God. Never should it be thought necessary to give an appearance of wealth. Never should appearance be depended on as a means of success. This is a delusion. The desire to make an appearance that is not in every way appropriate to the work that God has given us to do, an appearance that could be kept up only by expending a large sum of money, is a merciless tyrant. It is like a canker that is ever eating into the vitals. 7T 93.1"
"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?"
The EGW passage directly references and applies the principle of walking humbly with God, as stated in Micah 6:8.
"Men of common sense appreciate comfort above elegance and display. It is a mistake to suppose that, by keeping up an appearance, more patients, and therefore more means, would be gained. But even if this course would bring an increase of patronage, we could not consent to have our sanitariums furnished according to the luxurious ideas of the age. Christian influence is too valuable to be sacrificed in this way. All the surroundings, inside and outside our institutions, must be in harmony with the teachings of Christ and the expression of our faith. Our work in all its departments should be an illustration, not of display and extravagance, but of sanctified judgment. 7T 93.2"
"Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God."
The EGW passage directly applies the principle of doing all things to the glory of God to the specific context of furnishing and operating sanitariums. It emphasizes that even in practical matters like comfort and appearance, the focus should be on reflecting Christian values and glorifying God rather than pursuing worldly standards.
"It is not large, expensive buildings; it is not rich furniture; it is not tables loaded with delicacies, that will give our work influence and success. It is the faith that works by love and purifies the soul; it is the atmosphere of grace that surrounds the believer, the Holy Spirit working upon mind and heart, that makes him a savor of life unto life, and enables God to bless his work. 7T 93.3"
"Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?"
Both passages emphasize the importance of inner spiritual qualities over outward appearances or material possessions. The EGW passage highlights faith, love, and the Holy Spirit's work, while the Bible verse speaks of the indwelling Spirit of God. The connection lies in the idea that true influence and success come from a transformed inner life rather than external factors.
"God can communicate with His people today and give them wisdom to do His will, even as He communicated with His people of old and gave them wisdom in building the tabernacle. In the construction of this building He gave a representation of His power and majesty; and His name is to be honored in the buildings that are erected for Him today. Faithfulness, stability, and fitness are to be seen in every part. 7T 93.4"
"And let them make me a sanctuary; that I may dwell among them."
Both passages connect God's guidance and wisdom with the construction of buildings dedicated to Him. The EGW passage draws a parallel between God's instructions for building the tabernacle and the need for faithfulness and stability in modern-day buildings for His service. The Exodus verse establishes the purpose of the tabernacle as a dwelling place for God, which is the core thematic link.