"And now, as in the days of Israel, every youth should be instructed in the duties of practical life. Each should acquire a knowledge of some branch of manual labor, by which, if need be, he may obtain a livelihood. This is essential, not only as a safeguard against the vicissitudes of life, but from its bearing upon physical, mental, and moral development. Even if it were certain that one would never need to resort to manual labor for his support, still he should be taught to work. Without physical exercise, no one can have a sound constitution and vigorous health; and the discipline of well-regulated labor is no less essential to the securing of a strong and active mind and a noble character. CE 69.1"
"Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it."
While Proverbs 22:6 is about general upbringing, EGW applies the principle of training to include practical skills and manual labor, emphasizing its importance for overall development.
"Every student should devote a portion of each day to active labor. Thus habits of industry would be formed, and a spirit of self-reliance encouraged, while the youth would be shielded from many evil and degrading practices that are so often the result of idleness. And this is all in keeping with the primary object of education; for in encouraging activity, diligence, and purity, we are coming into harmony with the Creator. CE 69.2"
"And the Lord God took the man, and put him into the garden of Eden to dress it and to keep it."
The Genesis verse describes Adam's work in the Garden of Eden, and the EGW passage advocates for active labor and industry, connecting it to a principle established at creation. The connection is valid and meaningful.
"For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them."
Ephesians 2:10 speaks of being created for good works. The EGW passage connects active labor and diligence to being in harmony with the Creator, which aligns with the concept of good works ordained by God. The connection is valid.