"As those who have spent their lives in the service of Christ draw near to the close of their earthly ministry, they will be impressed by the Holy Spirit to recount the experiences they have had in connection with the work of God. The record of His wonderful dealings with His people, of His great goodness in delivering them from trial, should be repeated to those newly come to the faith. God desires the old and tried laborers to stand in their place, doing their part to save men and women from being swept downward by the mighty current of evil. He desires them to keep the armor on till He bids them lay it down. AA 574.1"
"Now also when I am old and grayheaded, O God, forsake me not; until I have shewed thy strength unto this generation, and thy power to every one that is to come."
Both passages address the role of older individuals in sharing their experiences and wisdom with younger generations. The EGW passage focuses on recounting God's dealings and delivering people from evil, while Psalm 71:18 expresses a desire to show God's strength to future generations. The shared theme is the importance of older individuals continuing to contribute and share their faith and experiences.
"In the experience of the apostle John under persecution, there is a lesson of wonderful strength and comfort for the Christian. God does not prevent the plottings of wicked men, but He causes their devices to work for good to those who in trial and conflict maintain their faith and loyalty. Often the gospel laborer carries on his work amid storms of persecution, bitter opposition, and unjust reproach. At such times let him remember that the experience to be gained in the furnace of trial and affliction is worth all the pain it costs. Thus God brings His children near to Him, that He may show them their weakness and His strength. He teaches them to lean on Him. Thus He prepares them to meet emergencies, to fill positions of trust, and to accomplish the great purpose for which their powers were given them. AA 574.2"
"And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose."
The EGW passage directly echoes the principle of Romans 8:28, that God works all things for good for those who love Him, even persecution and suffering. The context of John's persecution reinforces this.
"Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him."
Both passages discuss the blessing that comes from enduring trials and temptations, and the reward promised to those who love God. The EGW passage expands on the idea of the experience gained in trials.