"The power exercised by every ruler on the earth is Heaven-imparted; and upon his use of the power thus bestowed, his success depends. To each the word of the divine Watcher is, “I girded thee, though thou hast not known Me.” Isaiah 45:5 . And to each the words spoken to Nebuchadnezzar of old are the lesson of life: “Break off thy sins by righteousness, and thine iniquities by showing mercy to the poor: if it may be a lengthening of thy tranquillity.” Daniel 4:27 . PK 502.1"
"I am the Lord, and there is none else, there is no God beside me: I girded thee, though thou hast not known me:"
Ellen White directly references Isaiah 45:5 in this passage.
"Wherefore, O king, let my counsel be acceptable unto thee, and break off thy sins by righteousness, and thine iniquities by shewing mercy to the poor; if it may be a lengthening of thy tranquillity."
Ellen White directly references Daniel 4:27 in this passage.
"To understand these things,—to understand that “righteousness exalteth a nation;” that “the throne is established by righteousness,” and “upholden by mercy;” to recognize the outworking of these principles in the manifestation of His power who “removeth kings, and setteth up kings,”—this is to understand the philosophy of history. Proverbs 14:34 ; 16:12 ; Proverbs 20:28 ; Daniel 2:21 . PK 502.2"
"It is an abomination to kings to commit wickedness: for the throne is established by righteousness."
EGW directly quotes Proverbs 16:12.
"Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people."
EGW directly quotes Proverbs 14:34.
"Mercy and truth preserve the king: and his throne is upholden by mercy."
EGW directly quotes Proverbs 20:28.
"And he changeth the times and the seasons: he removeth kings, and setteth up kings: he giveth wisdom unto the wise, and knowledge to them that know understanding:"
EGW directly quotes Daniel 2:21.
"In the word of God only is this clearly set forth. Here it is shown that the strength of nations, as of individuals, is not found in the opportunities or facilities that appear to make them invincible; it is not found in their boasted greatness. It is measured by the fidelity with which they fulfill God's purpose. PK 502.3"
"There is no king saved by the multitude of an host: a mighty man is not delivered by much strength."
Both passages emphasize that true strength comes not from worldly power but from something else (God's purpose/God). The Psalm provides a specific example of military might being insufficient, while EGW speaks more generally.
"He delighteth not in the strength of the horse: he taketh not pleasure in the legs of a man. The Lord taketh pleasure in them that fear him, in those that hope in his mercy."
Both passages emphasize that true strength and favor come from God, not from worldly power or might. EGW's passage expands on this principle, applying it to nations as well as individuals.