"The question of suitable recreation for their pupils is one that teachers often find perplexing. Gymnastic exercises fill a useful place in many schools; but without careful supervision they are often carried to excess. In the gymnasium many youth, by their attempted feats of strength, have done themselves lifelong injury. Ed 210.1"
"For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come."
Both passages discuss the value of physical exercise. 1 Timothy 4:8 states that bodily exercise profits little, while godliness profits all. EGW warns against excessive gymnastic exercises that can cause injury, implying a need for balance and moderation, which aligns with the sentiment in 1 Timothy.
"Exercise in a gymnasium, however well conducted, cannot supply the place of recreation in the open air, and for this our schools should afford better opportunity. Vigorous exercise the pupils must have. Few evils are more to be dreaded than indolence and aimlessness. Yet the tendency of most athletic sports is a subject of anxious thought to those who have at heart the well-being of the youth. Teachers are troubled as they consider the influence of these sports both on the student's progress in school and on his success in afterlife. The games that occupy so much of his time are diverting the mind from study. They are not helping to prepare the youth for practical, earnest work in life. Their influence does not tend toward refinement, generosity, or real manliness. Ed 210.2"
"For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come."
Both passages discuss the value of physical exercise, but prioritize spiritual development. EGW expands on the potential pitfalls of athletic sports, while Paul emphasizes the greater importance of godliness.
"Slothfulness casteth into a deep sleep; and an idle soul shall suffer hunger."
Both passages discuss the negative consequences of idleness. EGW expands on this in the context of education and physical activity, while Proverbs speaks more generally.