The truth of this verse is pretty common in Proverbs (see 18:24; 27:10). It’s the value and importance of a good friend and a brother.
One of the biggest reasons “a friend loves at all times” is because they choose to have a relationship with us. They choose to love us and stand by us “at all times,” suggesting we can count on them daily.
On the other hand, we don’t really get to choose our biological families. In a sense, they are just sort of stuck with us!
So “a brother” (or sister!) also has a basic commitment to us – just because we are family. And while they may get very annoyed with a lot of our stupid stuff, they also tend to be there in our day of “adversity.”
Admittedly, at times, both brother’s and friend’s commitment to us may call for some “tough love” toward us. That means sometimes they just might not be there – because they do love us!
We should appreciate all the friends, brothers, sisters and family we have in our lives. Every time they stand with us, it is by their choice.
But this verse also reminds us of our calling to be a good friend, brother, sister or family to them, as well!