"There is but one course for those to pursue who honestly desire to be freed from doubts. Instead of questioning and caviling concerning that which they do not understand, let them give heed to the light which already shines upon them, and they will receive greater light. Let them do every duty which has been made plain to their understanding, and they will be enabled to understand and perform those of which they are now in doubt. GC 528.1"
"If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself."
Both passages connect obedience to God's will with gaining understanding. EGW's statement is a clear application of the principle found in John 7:17.
"Satan can present a counterfeit so closely resembling the truth that it deceives those who are willing to be deceived, who desire to shun the self-denial and sacrifice demanded by the truth; but it is impossible for him to hold under his power one soul who honestly desires, at whatever cost, to know the truth. Christ is the truth and the “Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.” John 1:9 . The Spirit of truth has been sent to guide men into all truth. And upon the authority of the Son of God it is declared: “Seek, and ye shall find.” “If any man will do His will, he shall know of the doctrine.” Matthew 7:7 ; John 7:17 . GC 528.2"
"That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world."
Ellen White directly references John 1:9 in this passage.
"Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:"
Ellen White directly references Matthew 7:7 in this passage.
"If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself."
Ellen White directly references John 7:17 in this passage.
"distress and affliction, but because this process is essential to their final victory. He could not, consistently with His own glory, shield them from temptation; for the very object of the trial is to prepare them to resist all the allurements of evil. GC 528.3"
"Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him."
Both passages connect enduring temptation/trials with a future reward or victory. EGW's statement explains the purpose of trials in preparing believers for final victory, aligning with James 1:12.
"And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me."
Both passages deal with the idea that weakness and trials can lead to strength and spiritual growth. The EGW passage expands on the purpose of trials, while the verse from 2 Corinthians speaks of God's grace being sufficient in weakness.