Proverbs 24:10
If thou faint in the day of adversity, thy strength is small.
Original Language Analysis
הִ֭תְרַפִּיתָ
If thou faint
H7503
הִ֭תְרַפִּיתָ
If thou faint
Strong's:
H7503
Word #:
1 of 5
to slacken (in many applications, literal or figurative)
בְּי֥וֹם
in the day
H3117
בְּי֥וֹם
in the day
Strong's:
H3117
Word #:
2 of 5
a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso
Cross References
Ephesians 3:13Wherefore I desire that ye faint not at my tribulations for you, which is your glory.Jeremiah 51:46And lest your heart faint, and ye fear for the rumour that shall be heard in the land; a rumour shall both come one year, and after that in another year shall come a rumour, and violence in the land, ruler against ruler.1 Samuel 27:1And David said in his heart, I shall now perish one day by the hand of Saul: there is nothing better for me than that I should speedily escape into the land of the Philistines; and Saul shall despair of me, to seek me any more in any coast of Israel: so shall I escape out of his hand.2 Corinthians 4:1Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not;Job 4:5But now it is come upon thee, and thou faintest; it toucheth thee, and thou art troubled.Revelation 2:3And hast borne, and hast patience, and for my name's sake hast laboured, and hast not fainted.Revelation 2:13I know thy works, and where thou dwellest, even where Satan's seat is: and thou holdest fast my name, and hast not denied my faith, even in those days wherein Antipas was my faithful martyr, who was slain among you, where Satan dwelleth.
Historical Context
Israel faced repeated adversities—Egyptian slavery, wilderness wandering, Philistine oppression, exile. God used these to test, refine, and demonstrate His people's faith or lack thereof.
Questions for Reflection
- How have you responded when facing adversity—with perseverance or collapse?
- What spiritual disciplines can you strengthen now to prepare for future trials?
Analysis & Commentary
'If thou faint in the day of adversity, thy strength is small'—trials reveal true character and capacity. Those who collapse under pressure demonstrate weakness, while those who persevere show genuine strength. Adversity tests and exposes what prosperity conceals. This isn't condemning those who struggle but calling for cultivation of genuine strength through faith, wisdom, and character. Romans 5:3-5 teaches that tribulation produces perseverance and character. Believers should expect trials and prepare through spiritual disciplines. Don't be surprised by adversity; be ready for it. Build strength before the test comes through consistent godly living, Scripture intake, prayer, and fellowship. When trials arrive, proven character will enable perseverance.