"In no conference should propositions be rushed through without time being taken by the brethren to weigh carefully all sides of the question. Because the president of a conference suggested certain plans, it has sometimes been considered unnecessary to consult the Lord about them. Thus propositions have been accepted that were not for the spiritual benefit of the believers and that involved far more than was apparent at the first casual consideration. Such movements are not in the order of God. Many, very many matters have been taken up and carried by vote, that have involved far more than was anticipated and far more than those who voted would have been willing to assent to had they taken time to consider the question from all sides. 9T 278.1"
"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 emphasizes the need to consult the Lord before making decisions, especially in church matters. James 1:5 directly encourages seeking wisdom from God. The connection is strong and represents a direct application of the biblical principle.
"Also, that the soul be without knowledge, it is not good; and he that hasteth with his feet sinneth."
Both passages address the importance of careful consideration and avoiding hasty decisions. Proverbs 19:2 warns against acting without knowledge, while the EGW passage applies this principle to decision-making within church conferences. The connection is valid, though not a direct quote or explicit allusion.
"We cannot at this time afford to be careless or negligent in the work of God. We must seek the Lord earnestly every day if we would be prepared for the experiences that come to us. Our hearts are to be cleansed from every feeling of superiority, and the living principles of the truth are to be planted in the soul. Young and aged and middle-aged should now be practicing the virtues of Christ's character. They should daily be making spiritual development, that they may become vessels unto honor in the Master's service. 9T 278.2"
"If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master’s use, and prepared unto every good work."
Both passages discuss the importance of personal purification and spiritual development to become useful in God's service. The phrase 'vessel unto honour' is a clear echo, making the connection strong.
"“And it came to pass, that, as He was praying in a certain place, when He ceased, one of His disciples said unto Him, Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples.” Luke 11:1 . The prayer that Christ gave to His disciples in answer to this request is not made in high-flown language, but expresses in simple words the necessities of the soul. It is short and deals directly with the daily needs. 9T 278.3"
"And it came to pass, that, as he was praying in a certain place, when he ceased, one of his disciples said unto him, Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples."
Ellen White directly references Luke 11:1 in this passage.