"Because time is short, we should work with diligence and double energy. Our children may never enter college, but they can obtain an education in those essential branches which they can turn to a practical use, and which will give culture to the mind and call its powers into exercise. Very many youth who have gone through a college course have not obtained that true education that they can put to practical use.— Testimonies for the Church 3:148-159 . CT 293.1"
"Redeeming the time, because the days are evil."
The EGW quote directly echoes the sentiment of Ephesians 5:16, emphasizing the importance of using time wisely and diligently, especially given the limited time available. Both passages highlight the need to make the most of the present moment.
"***** I appeal to our churches where there are schools, to appoint as teachers of the children and youth those who love the Lord Jesus Christ and who will make the word of God the foundation of education. And they should teach the youth to keep themselves in health by obedience to the laws of right living. Teachers and pupils will derive mental and spiritual help from self-denial, by practicing the principles of health reform. They will surely find, as did Daniel and his companions, that blessings come from conforming the life to God's word. CT 293.2"
"As for these four children, God gave them knowledge and skill in all learning and wisdom: and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams."
The EGW quote explicitly mentions Daniel and his companions as an example of how blessings come from conforming to God's word, directly referencing the story and outcome described in Daniel 1:17. This is more than a thematic parallel; it's a direct allusion to a specific biblical narrative.
"Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it."
The EGW quote emphasizes the importance of teachers who love the Lord and make the word of God the foundation of education, which aligns with the principle of Proverbs 22:6, which advocates for training children in the right way. While not a direct quote, the underlying principle of guiding children in a godly manner is present in both.
"“Watch and pray,” is an injunction often repeated in the Scriptures. In the lives of those who obey this injunction there will be an undercurrent of happiness that will bless all with whom they are brought in contact. Those who are sour and cross in disposition will become sweet and gentle; those who are proud will become meek and lowly. CT 293.3"
"Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak."
EGW directly quotes and expands upon the injunction "Watch and pray" found in Matthew 26:41.
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law."
The EGW passage speaks of the transformation of character through obedience to "watch and pray," resulting in gentleness and meekness. This aligns thematically with the fruit of the Spirit described in Galatians 5:22-23, although the connection is not a direct quote or explicit allusion.