The writer was old and saw his life as an "example," a solemn sign or testimony to others of all God had done for him (Psa 71:7, Psa_71:18). Remembering our lifetime of blessings will help us to see the consistency of God's grace throughout the years, trust him for the future, and share with others the benefits of following him.
Psalms 71:14
As we face the sunset years, we recognize that God has been our constant help in the past. As physical powers wane, we need God even more, and we realize he is still our constant help. We must never despair, but keep on expecting his help no matter how severe our limitations. Hope in him helps us to keep going, to keep serving him.
Psalms 71:18
A person is never too old to serve God, never too old to pray. Though age may stop us from certain physical activities, it need not stifle our desire or limit our opportunities to tell others (especially children) about all we have seen God do in our many years of life.
