What does Proverbs 24:10 mean?

This is the twenty-fourth of thirty wise sayings endorsed by Solomon (Proverbs 22:17–21). Most of the thirty are longer than the typically short statements in the book of Proverbs. This teaching is brief, though the Hebrew wordplay is lost in translation. The term for "adversity" is sārāh', while the term for "small" is sar'. The word translated "faint" can also mean to "let go," "weaken," or "fail." Stating that someone who "fails" in times of trouble is weak is not meant as an insult, but as a blunt warning. Difficulty is a given during earthly life (Psalm 20:1; 86:7; Ecclesiastes 8:6; John 16:33). A person should prepare to face it, starting with godly wisdom (Proverbs 1:7; 24:5).

Everyone, including believers, encounters adversity. Adversity is a normal part of life. For the Christian, adversity can be a good thing. James writes, "Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds" (James 1:2). His words were addressed to Hebrew Christians who were experiencing intense persecution. But why should adversity cause Christians to rejoice? James also gives the answer: "for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness" (James 1:3). Further, steadfastness can make believers spiritually mature and "complete, lacking nothing" (James 1:4). The apostle Peter also wrote to persecuted Hebrew Christians about the value of adversity. He said trials prove the genuineness of one's faith (1 Peter 1:3–9). Believers under pressure of adversity are encouraged to steel themselves and trust in Christ's power (Hebrews 12:12–13), rather than fall.