The scriptures read “a friend loveth at all times and a brother is born for adversity” (Proverbs 17:17 KJV). The Hebrew word for love in this verse was ahab which means “to have affection for,” and in this context, it is referring to platonic affection between friends. A true, faithful friend loves continually in both the good times and the bad, no matter the circumstance.

It is humanly impossible for us to love all the time. No human has absolute control over their flesh to where they can choose to love at all times, even those who have been born again as described in John 3. Our lives are bombarded with conflict, discord, miscommunication, trials, and jealousies that we cannot overcome on our own.

A brother is born for adversity, or in other words, a brother is born to help when trials come. When life is hard, he is there to fight with you, hold you up, and encourage you to keep going. But, how many siblings don’t show up? How many bothers and sisters fight against one another out of jealousy, pride, or misunderstandings? We cannot rely on siblings in every situation in life.

No human is capable of fulfilling this psalm in entirety.

“A friend loveth at all times and a brother is born for adversity.”

Proverbs 17:17

Except Jesus.

He came to earth in human form. He felt every desire, pain, and temptation that we feel today. He overcame being tempted with pride, power, and his own flesh. He absorbed sin although it was not his own to bear.

Because of His love.

He is the friend that loves at all times.

He is the friend who remains loyal in trials, miscommunications, and arguments.

He is the friend that always has time for us, gets jealous when we make plans without Him, and welcomes us graciously when we return to Him.

He is the brother born for our adversity, sent to fight our battle of sin for us, and here to help us endure our trials and heartaches.

He is our avenger and protector.

He is our kinsman redeemer.

Proverbs 18:24 states, “A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.” Jesus is our friend that sticks closer than a brother. He is not only capable of loving us 100% of the time, but chooses to do so, unconditionally, no strings attached.

When we become disappointed with our worldly relationships or circumstances, let it be a reminder to us as believers that we are made for a greater purpose with a heavenly inheritance. Our true friend and brother, provider and protector, is Jesus Christ, the Son of God. He is The Best Friend.