"they would have avoided losses and trials which they think are hard and severe. They have only themselves to censure. They have placed upon their own necks a yoke which they find grievous to be borne. It is not the yoke which Christ has bound upon them. God's care and love were exercised in their behalf; but their selfish, evil, unbelieving souls could not discern His goodness and mercy. They rush on in their own wisdom, until, overwhelmed with trials and confused with perplexity, they are ensnared by Satan. When you gather up the rays of light which God has given in the past, then will He give an increase of light.” LS 200.1"
"For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light."
The EGW passage contrasts a self-imposed, grievous yoke with the ease of Christ's yoke, directly echoing the sentiment of Matthew 11:30. The connection is clear and meaningful.
"I referred them to ancient Israel. God gave them His law; but they would not obey it. He then gave them ceremonies and ordinances, that in the performance of these God might be kept in remembrance. They were so prone to forget Him and His claims upon them, that it was necessary to keep their minds stirred up to realize their obligations to obey and honor their Creator. Had they been obedient, and loved to keep God's commandments, the multitude of ceremonies and ordinances would not have been required. LS 200.2"
"And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart:"
EGW's statement about Israel forgetting God and needing reminders directly relates to Deuteronomy 6:6's command to keep God's words in one's heart. The EGW passage explains why the ceremonies were needed, which is a direct consequence of not following the principle in Deuteronomy 6:6.
"If the people who now profess to be God's peculiar treasure would obey His requirements, as specified in His word, special testimonies would not be given to awaken them to their duty, and impress upon them their sinfulness and their fearful danger in neglecting to obey the word of God. Consciences have been blunted, because light has been set aside, neglected, and despised. And God will remove these Testimonies from the people, and will deprive them of strength, and humble them. LS 200.3"
"For thou art an holy people unto the Lord thy God: the Lord thy God hath chosen thee to be a special people unto himself, above all people that are upon the face of the earth."
Both passages discuss God's chosen people and their responsibility to obey Him. EGW speaks of the consequences of disobedience, while Deuteronomy 7:6 establishes the basis for that responsibility. The connection is thematic and relevant.