"Often the Christian life is beset with dangers, and duty seems hard to perform. The imagination pictures impending ruin before, and bondage and death behind. Yet the voice of God speaks clearly, Go forward. Let us obey the command, even though our sight cannot penetrate the darkness. The obstacles that hinder our progress will never disappear before a halting, doubting spirit. Those who defer obedience till every uncertainty disappears, and there remains no risk of failure or defeat, will never obey. Faith looks beyond the difficulties, and lays hold of the unseen, even Omnipotence, therefore it cannot be baffled. Faith is the clasping of the hand of Christ in every emergency. GW 262.1"
"And the Lord said unto Moses, Wherefore criest thou unto me? speak unto the children of Israel, that they go forward:"
Both passages emphasize the importance of moving forward in faith despite difficulties and uncertainties. The Exodus verse provides a specific example of God commanding action, while EGW applies this principle to the Christian life in general.
"(For we walk by faith, not by sight:)"
EGW's statement about faith looking beyond difficulties and laying hold of the unseen directly reflects the principle of walking by faith and not by sight, as stated in 2 Corinthians 5:7.
"But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him."
Both passages highlight the necessity of faith in pleasing God. EGW emphasizes faith's ability to overcome obstacles, while Hebrews 11:6 focuses on the fundamental requirement of believing in God's existence and His role as a rewarder.
"The worker for God needs strong faith. Appearances may seem forbidding; but in the darkest hour there is light beyond. The strength of those who, in faith, love and serve God, will be renewed day by day. The understanding of the Infinite is placed at their service, that in carrying out His purposes they may not err. Let these workers hold the beginning of their confidence firm unto the end, remembering that the light of God's truth is to shine amid the darkness that enshrouds our world. GW 262.2"
"But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint."
Both passages speak to the renewal of strength for those who trust in God. Isaiah 40:31 provides a vivid image of this renewal, while EGW applies it to the worker for God facing challenges.
"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven."
Both passages discuss letting one's light shine, though EGW focuses on the inner strength and faith needed to do so, while Matthew focuses on the outward manifestation of good works. The connection is thematic rather than a direct principle.
"and to give them the wisdom that their varied necessities demand. He will more than fulfil the highest expectations of those who put their trust in Him. GW 262.3"
"If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him."
Both passages directly address the idea that God provides wisdom to those who ask for it. EGW's statement that God will 'more than fulfill' expectations is an amplification of the 'giveth to all men liberally' aspect of James 1:5.
"But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus."
Both passages speak to God's provision for the needs of those who trust in Him. Philippians 4:19 focuses on material needs, while EGW's statement is broader, encompassing wisdom and fulfillment of expectations. The connection is thematic.