What It Really Means to Be “A Friend That Loves at All Times”
“A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.” – Proverbs 17:17
True friendship is one of the most valuable relationships in life. But what does it really mean to be “a friend that loves at all times”? This verse challenges us to move beyond surface-level relationships and become friends who reflect Christ’s love. Let’s explore what this kind of friendship looks like.
1. A True Friend Loves in Good and Bad Times
Many friendships are based on convenience—people stick around when life is easy but disappear when trouble comes. However, a godly friend remains faithful through every season of life.
- In good times, they celebrate with you.
- In hard times, they walk with you through struggles.
- In failures, they encourage and lift you up.
Example: Jonathan and David’s friendship (1 Samuel 18:1-4) remained strong even when King Saul wanted to kill David. Jonathan risked his own life to support his friend.
Reflection: Are you the kind of friend who stays through both victories and trials?
2. A True Friend Loves with Actions, Not Just Words
Saying “I love you” is easy, but real friendship is shown through action.
- Helping in times of need (Galatians 6:2 – “Carry each other’s burdens.”)
- Being present during hardships (Job 2:11 – Job’s friends sat with him in silence for seven days.)
- Encouraging and strengthening one another (1 Thessalonians 5:11 – “Encourage one another and build each other up.”)
Reflection: Do you show love through practical actions, not just words?
3. A True Friend Speaks the Truth in Love
Many people avoid difficult conversations to keep the peace, but a real friend is willing to speak the truth—even when it’s hard.
- Proverbs 27:6 – “Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.”
- Ephesians 4:15 – “Speak the truth in love.”
A godly friend will gently correct, encourage growth, and guide toward righteousness rather than just agreeing with everything.
Reflection: Do you lovingly challenge your friends to grow in faith and character?
4. A True Friend Forgives and Extends Grace
No one is perfect, and every friendship will face challenges. Loving at all times means forgiving when wronged.
- Proverbs 10:12 – “Love covers all offenses.”
- Colossians 3:13 – “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone.”
Jesus calls us to forgive just as He forgave us (Ephesians 4:32).
Reflection: Do you hold grudges, or do you extend grace like Christ?
5. A True Friend Points You to Christ
The best kind of friend doesn’t just offer emotional support—they encourage spiritual growth.
- Proverbs 27:17 – “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”
- Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 – Two are better than one because they lift each other up.
A godly friend prays for you, reminds you of God’s promises, and helps you stay strong in faith.
Reflection: Do you help your friends grow closer to God?
Conclusion: Be a Christlike Friend
To “love at all times” means being a faithful, selfless, and Christlike friend—one who stays in every season, loves through actions, speaks truth, forgives, and strengthens others spiritually.
Challenge:
- Ask God to help you become a true friend who loves unconditionally.
- Be intentional in showing love to your friends today.
- Pray for wisdom in your friendships—both in giving and receiving godly relationships.
True friendship reflects the love of Christ, who is the greatest friend of all (John 15:13). Will you be a friend that loves at all times?


















