"“And pleasures of this life.” There is danger in amusement that is sought merely for self-gratification. All habits of indulgence that weaken the physical powers, that becloud the mind, or that benumb the spiritual perceptions, are “fleshly lusts, which war against the soul.” 1 Peter 2:11 . COL 53.1"
"Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul;"
Ellen White directly references 1 Peter 2:11 in this passage.
"“And the lusts of other things.” These are not necessarily things sinful in themselves, but something that is made first instead of the kingdom of God. Whatever attracts the mind from God, whatever draws the affections away from Christ, is an enemy to the soul. COL 53.2"
"But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you."
EGW's statement about prioritizing the kingdom of God directly reflects the principle found in Matthew 6:33, which urges believers to seek God's kingdom first.
"And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entering in, choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful."
EGW directly quotes and expands upon the phrase "the lusts of other things" from Mark 4:19, providing further explanation of its meaning and impact.
"Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him."
EGW directly echoes the principle of not loving the world and its things, emphasizing that anything taking precedence over God is an enemy to the soul, aligning with 1 John 2:15.
"***** When the mind is youthful and vigorous and susceptible of rapid development, there is great temptation to be ambitious for self, to serve self. If worldly schemes are successful, there is an inclination to continue in a line that deadens conscience, and prevents a correct estimate as to what constitutes real excellence of character. When circumstances favor this development, growth will be seen in a direction prohibited by the word of God. COL 53.3"
"Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him."
This passage expands on the principle of not loving the world, as described in 1 John 2:15, by detailing how worldly ambition and success can lead one away from God and a correct understanding of true excellence.