Proverbs 17:17 A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.
This is a verse that we have covered in the past in our daily devotions, but today we look at it from the perspective of love. The form of love that we have in today’s verse is the Hebrew word ohev which is a participle, indicating an ongoing, continuous action rather than a fleeting emotion. It signifies a friend who acts lovingly, not just feels it one time and then moves on.
A friend loves at all times. All is in totality, all encompassing. A friend loves in an ongoing, continuous manner in every moment. If they do not continue to show devotion and compassion, can you truly call them a friend? Do they become a mere acquaintance at that point? A true friend is going to stand by you through everything, walk alongside you in the tough times, and cry with you when you cry.
When you have a genuine, God-given friendship it remains constant regardless of the circumstances, and that person will act with sacrificial loyalty a family member might exhibit during difficult times. In this context, it often implies a “brotherhood” or intense bond forged through shared, difficult experiences. The verse suggests that true loyalty is proven when life becomes difficult (adversity).
This verse encourages Christians to emulate Christ’s sacrificial love by being faithful and supportive of others in their times of need. We have a prime example of love in Christ and we should strive to do as He did and continues to do for us.
How many close friends do you have? If I am honest, I don’t have a whole lot that are super close that I would consider to be the same level as today’s verse. I have a few who I would trust with my deepest troubles and darkest secrets, but they are a select few. How about you?
Prayer: Lord, Let me be a true friend. Let me walk alongside my friends with an ongoing, continuous love. Let the love of Christ shine through me. Amen
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