Proverbs 24:10

If thou faint in the day of adversity, they strength is small.
– Proverbs 24:10

Verses 10-12 form the next saying, which deals with perseverance in the face of difficulty. The word for faint means to slacken and the word for adversity means to tighten. There may be a play on the words there. Adversities are all sorts of distresses and troubles. Wisdom knows adversities test and reveal character, as the second phrase shows the faint has small strength. Wisdom requires us to quit the way and counsels of foolishness and to act wisely in the time of trouble (Proverbs 31:8-9).

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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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