"Those who are employed to write and to speak the Word should attend fewer committee meetings. They should entrust many minor matters to men of business ability, and thus avoid being kept on a constant strain that robs the mind of its natural vigor. They should give far more attention to the preservation of physical health; for vigor of mind depends largely upon vigor of body. Proper periods of sleep and rest and an abundance of physical exercise are essential to health of body and mind. To rob nature of her hours for rest and recuperation, by allowing one man to do the work of four, or of three, or even of two, will result in irreparable loss. GW 422.3 Education in Business Lines Those who think that a man's fitness for a certain position qualifies him to fill several other positions, are liable to make mistakes when planning for the advancement of the work. They are liable to place upon one the cares and burdens that should be divided among several. GW 423"
"For the body is not one member, but many."
The EGW quote discusses the importance of distributing workload and not overburdening individuals, drawing a parallel to the concept of the body having many members, each with its own function, as described in 1 Corinthians 12:14. The connection is thematic, emphasizing the need for diverse contributions and avoiding over-reliance on a few individuals.
"Experience is of great value. The Lord desires to have men of intelligence connected with His work, men qualified for various positions of trust in our conferences and institutions. Especially are consecrated business men needed, men who will carry the principles of truth into every business transaction. Those placed in charge of financial affairs should not assume other burdens, burdens that they are incapable of bearing; nor is the business management to be entrusted to incompetent men. Those in charge of the work have erred sometimes in permitting the appointment of men devoid of tact and ability to manage important financial interests. GW 423.2"
"Moreover thou shalt provide out of all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness; and place such over them, to be rulers of thousands, and rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of tens:"
The EGW quote emphasizes the need for capable, trustworthy, and consecrated individuals in financial roles, mirroring the principle in Exodus 18:21, which instructs to select able men who fear God, are truthful, and hate covetousness to be rulers. The connection is strong and reflects a shared principle of selecting qualified individuals for positions of responsibility.
"Men of promise in business lines should develop and perfect their talents by most thorough study and training. They should be encouraged to place themselves where, as students, they can rapidly gain a knowledge of right business principles and methods. Not one business man now connected with the cause needs to be a novice. If men in any line of work ought to improve their opportunities to become wise and efficient, it is those who are using their ability in the work of building up the kingdom of God in our world. In view of the fact that we are living so near the close of this earth's history, there should be greater thoroughness in labor, more vigilant waiting, watching, praying, and working. The human agent should strive to attain perfection, that he may be an ideal Christian, complete in Christ Jesus. GW 423.3"
"Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men."
Both passages emphasize diligence in one's work leading to success and recognition. Proverbs speaks of standing before kings, while EGW speaks of achieving perfection and building God's kingdom. The core idea of diligence leading to advancement is present in both.