"“We pray that Thou wouldst help us to learn the lesson of brevity of human life; of the necessity of giving ourselves to Thee; of the great encouragement Thou dost give us, in this life that has just closed, as to what Thou wilt do for those who lend themselves to Thy service. LS 466.5"
"Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away."
The EGW passage's emphasis on 'brevity of human life' directly reflects the sentiment expressed in James 4:14, which compares life to a vapor that quickly vanishes. Both passages highlight the fleeting nature of life and the need to dedicate oneself to God's service in light of this brevity.
"I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:"
Both passages reflect on the end of life and the encouragement found in a life well-lived in service to God. The EGW quote refers to the 'life that has just closed' and the encouragement it provides, while 2 Timothy 4:7 is Paul's reflection on finishing his course. The connection is thematic.
"I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service."
Both passages emphasize dedicating oneself to God's service. Romans 12:1 calls for presenting our bodies as a living sacrifice, while the EGW quote speaks of giving ourselves to God. The connection is thematic rather than a direct principle.