"Let none pass by little opportunities, to look for larger work. You might do successfully the small work, but fail utterly in attempting the larger work, and fall into discouragement. It is by doing with your might what you find to do that you will develop aptitude for larger work. It is by slighting the daily opportunities, by neglecting the little things right at hand, that so many become fruitless and withered. MH 153"
"He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much."
The EGW passage directly reflects the principle of faithfulness in small things leading to faithfulness in larger things, as stated in Luke 16:10. Both emphasize the importance of diligently handling small tasks as preparation for greater responsibilities.
"Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest."
Both passages emphasize the importance of doing what you can with all your strength. EGW's call to do 'with your might what you find to do' directly echoes the sentiment of Ecclesiastes 9:10.
"His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord."
Both passages emphasize faithfulness in small tasks leading to greater responsibility and reward. The EGW passage expands on the principle found in the parable of the talents.
"Church members should educate themselves to do this work. This is just as essential as to save the benighted souls in foreign countries. While some feel the burden for souls afar off, let the many who are at home feel the burden of precious souls who are around them, and work just as diligently for their salvation. MH 152.4 Many regret that they are living a narrow life. They themselves can make their life broad and influential if they will. Those who love Jesus with heart and mind and soul, and their neighbor as themselves, have a wide field in which to use their ability and influence. MH 153.1"
"And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself."
The EGW passage explicitly mentions loving one's neighbor as oneself, directly referencing and expanding upon the principle found in Matthew 22:39.
"As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith."
Both passages encourage doing good to those around you, especially those within your community or 'household of faith' (Galatians 6:10). EGW applies this to church members focusing on local needs alongside global concerns.
"Do not depend upon human aid. Look beyond human beings to the One appointed by God to bear our griefs, to carry our sorrows, and to supply our necessities. Taking God at His word, make a beginning wherever you find work to do, and move forward with unfaltering faith. It is faith in Christ's presence that gives strength and steadfastness. Work with unselfish interest, with painstaking effort, with persevering energy. MH 153.3"
"Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved."
Both passages encourage reliance on God rather than human aid, particularly in times of difficulty. The EGW passage elaborates on how this reliance translates into action and perseverance.
"I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me."
Both passages convey the idea that strength and ability to accomplish tasks come from Christ. The EGW passage focuses on applying this principle to work and overcoming challenges.