"Advancing by Faith At a meeting held at Topsham, some of the brethren present expressed their desire to have us visit New York State again; but feeble health weighed down my spirits. I told them that I dared not venture, unless the Lord should strengthen me for the task. They prayed for me, and the clouds were scattered, yet I did not obtain that strength I so much desired. I resolved to walk out by faith, and go, clinging to the promise, “My grace is sufficient for you.” LS 128"
"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."
EGW directly quotes and applies 2 Corinthians 12:9 to her own situation, demonstrating a clear and intentional connection.
"On the journey to New York, our faith was tried, but we obtained the victory. My strength increased, and I could rejoice in God. Many had embraced the truth since our first visit, but there was much to be done for them, and all our strength was needed in the work as it opened up before us. LS 128.2"
"And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us."
The EGW passage describes a trial of faith leading to victory and increased strength, which aligns with the Romans passage about tribulation leading to patience, experience, and hope. The connection is thematic, focusing on the positive outcomes of trials.
"It was necessary for him to keep the armor on every moment, for he often had to contend with professed Adventists who were advocating error. Some set a definite time for the coming of Christ. We took the position that the time they set would pass by. Then they sought to prejudice all against us and what we taught. I was shown that those who were honestly deceived would some day see the deception into which they had fallen, and would be led to search for truth. LS 128.4"
"For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ."
Both passages address the issue of false teachers and deception within a religious context. The EGW passage speaks of Adventists advocating error and seeking to prejudice others, while the Bible verse speaks of false apostles transforming themselves. The parallel is strong.