"The Aged The aged also need the helpful influences of the family. In the home of brethren and sisters in Christ can most nearly be made up to them the loss of their own home. If encouraged to share in the interests and occupations of the household, it will help them to feel that their usefulness is not at an end. Make them feel that their help is valued, that there is something yet for them to do in ministering to others, and it will cheer their hearts and give interest to their lives. MH 204"
"But if any widow have children or nephews, let them learn first to shew piety at home, and to requite their parents: for that is good and acceptable before God."
Both passages emphasize the importance of caring for family members, particularly those who are vulnerable (the aged and widows). While 1 Timothy 5:4 focuses on repaying parents, EGW expands on the benefits of including the aged in family life.
"So far as possible let those whose whitening heads and failing steps show that they are drawing near to the grave remain among friends and familiar associations. Let them worship among those whom they have known and loved. Let them be cared for by loving and tender hands. MH 204.2"
"Cast me not off in the time of old age; forsake me not when my strength faileth."
Both passages express the need to care for the elderly and not abandon them in their old age. EGW expands on the practical aspects of this care, while Psalm 71:9 is a plea for divine support.
Whenever they are able to do so, it should be the privilege of the members of every family to minister to their own kindred. When this cannot be, the work belongs to the church, and it should be accepted both as a privilege and as a duty. All who possess Christ's spirit will have a tender regard for the feeble and the aged. MH 204.3 The presence in our homes of one of these helpless ones is a precious opportunity to co-operate with Christ in His ministry of mercy and to develop traits of character like His. There is a blessing in the association of the old and the young. The young may bring sunshine into the hearts and lives of the aged. Those whose hold on life is weakening need the benefit of contact with the hopefulness and buoyancy of youth. And the young may be helped by the wisdom and experience of the old. Above all, they need to learn the lesson of unselfish ministry. The presence of one in need of sympathy and forbearance and self-sacrificing love would be to many a household …
"But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel."
Both passages emphasize the responsibility of family members to care for their own. EGW expands on this principle by including the church's role when family cannot provide care, and the spiritual benefits of caring for the vulnerable.