Proverbs 17:17

A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.
– Proverbs 17:17

The word for adversity means straits, or tightness. It describes troubles of all kinds. Adversity tries men’s hearts and the relationships we have with one another. Adversity proves the worth of family relations and true friends (Proverbs 19:6-7). Friends can be fickle (Proverbs 14:20; 19:4), but can also be true (Proverbs 18:24). That last reference also hints at a proverbial form of the golden rule (Luke 6:31). So, if you seek loyal, loving friendships, be a loyal, loving friend (Proverbs 27:10).

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