"The Care of Infants The more quiet and simple the life of the child, the more favorable it will be to both physical and mental development. At all times the mother should endeavor to be quiet, calm, and self-possessed. Many infants are extremely susceptible to nervous excitement, and the mother's gentle, unhurried manner will have a soothing influence that will be of untold benefit to the child. MH 381"
"And that ye study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you;"
While not a direct quote, the emphasis on quietness and calmness in EGW's writing echoes the sentiment in 1 Thessalonians 4:11, which encourages believers to be quiet and mind their own business. The connection is thematic, focusing on the value of a peaceful and orderly life.
"A wrathful man stirreth up strife: but he that is slow to anger appeaseth strife."
EGW's advice for mothers to be calm and self-possessed to avoid exciting infants parallels the general principle in Proverbs 15:18 that a calm demeanor can prevent strife. The connection is thematic, highlighting the positive impact of a peaceful disposition.
"The baby should be kept free from every influence that would tend to weaken or to poison the system. The most scrupulous care should be taken to have everything about it sweet and clean. While it may be necessary to protect the little ones from sudden or too great changes of temperature, care should be taken, that, sleeping or waking, day or night, they breathe a pure, invigorating atmosphere. MH 381.3"
"If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are."
Both passages emphasize the importance of keeping something (the body/temple) pure and free from defilement. The EGW passage applies this principle to the care of a baby, while 1 Corinthians 3:17 applies it to the spiritual temple of God.
"In the preparation of the baby's wardrobe, convenience, comfort, and health should be sought before fashion or a desire to excite admiration. The mother should not spend time in embroidery and fancywork to make the little garments beautiful, thus taxing herself with unnecessary labor at the expense of her own health and the health of her child. She should not bend over sewing that severely taxes eyes and nerves, at a time when she needs much rest and pleasant exercise. She should realize her obligation to cherish her strength, that she may be able to meet the demands that will be made upon her. MH 381.4"
"She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness."
Both passages touch on the responsible management of household duties and avoiding idleness or excessive focus on superficial things. Proverbs 31:27 describes a diligent woman, while the EGW passage advises mothers to prioritize health and well-being over elaborate clothing for their babies.