"“The workers are not to stand apart from one another, but work together in everything that interests the cause of God. And one of the most important things to be considered is self-culture. There is too little attention given to this matter. There should be a cultivation of all the powers to do high and honorable work for God. Wisdom may be gained in a much larger measure than many suppose who have been laboring for years in the cause of God.... LS 303.1"
"Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend."
Both passages highlight the benefit of working together and improving one another. Proverbs 27:17 uses the analogy of iron sharpening iron, while the EGW passage emphasizes the importance of workers not standing apart and cultivating their abilities together. The connection is thematic, focusing on mutual improvement through interaction.
"“Keep up the elevated character of the missionary work. Let the inquiry of both men and women associated in the missionary work be, What am I? and what ought I to be and do? Let each worker consider that he cannot give to others that which he does not possess himself. Therefore he should not settle down into his own set ways and habits, and make no change for the better. Paul says, I have not attained, but I press forward. It is constant advancement and improvement and reformation that is to be made with individuals, to perfect a symmetrical, well balanced character.... LS 303.2"
"I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus."
The EGW passage directly quotes Paul's statement, 'I have not attained, but I press forward,' which is a clear and unmistakable reference to Philippians 3:14. The surrounding context in EGW further elaborates on the need for constant advancement and improvement, aligning with the theme of striving towards a higher calling.
"“There is little that any of you can do alone. Two or more are better than one if you will each esteem the other better than yourself. If any of you consider your plans and modes of labor perfect, you greatly deceive yourselves. Counsel together with much prayer and humbleness of mind, willing to be entreated and advised. This will bring you where God will be your counselor.... LS 303.3"
"Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour."
The EGW passage directly echoes the principle of Ecclesiastes 4:9, emphasizing the benefits of collaboration and mutual support. The idea of 'two are better than one' is amplified with the addition of humility and prayer.
"“We are not to make the world's manner of dealing ours. We are to give to the world a nobler example, showing that our faith is of a high and elevated character. Do unto others as you would that others should do unto you. Let every action reveal the nobility of truth. Be true to your faith, and you will be true to God. Come to the Word, that you may learn what its claims really are. When God speaks, it is our duty to listen and obey.... LS 303.4"
"Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets."
The EGW passage explicitly references and applies the Golden Rule from Matthew 7:12.