A true friend stays close in good times and in hard ones.
“A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.”Proverbs 17:17 (KJV)
What does “Friend at all times” mean in Proverbs 17:17?
The proverb pairs friendship with family and says that adversity is where the bond shows. Loving at all times means being reliable, not only when it is easy.
Going deeper
A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity. Many people are friendly when things are going well. The test comes when someone is sick, grieving, or failing. A true friend shows up then. The proverb also suggests that hardship is part of what brothers and sisters are for. A family, and the church as a family, exists in part to stand together when life is difficult.
Being that kind of friend takes intention. It means checking in when someone goes quiet, showing up without being asked, and staying when the conversation is uncomfortable. Think of someone who is going through a hard time. What is one thing you could do this week to be present with them? It might be a call, a meal, or simply sitting beside them. And thank the friends who have stayed with you in your own hard seasons. Be that friend to someone, and thank the one who has been that friend to you.
Reflect
Who is going through something hard that you could stand beside this week?
Pray
Lord, thank You for friends who love at all times. Make me that kind of friend, and show me who needs me now. In Jesus' name, amen.
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