What does the proverb a friend in need a friend in deed mean?

a good friend will help you with all their might and in their power. a good friend will be there for you through thick and thin. a good friend will always value the bond you two share.

but if your friend is unable to perform a certain task because of a certain difficulties he is facing like his own family problems, personal secrets or something crucial to him and you still think as a best friend he should help at all cost, then you are not a good friend for not understanding his shoe.

if your friend hides a secret from you or bad mouth you just to express their hidden anger and for that you want to break the friendship, then you are not a good friend for not understanding the situation that you friend needs a punching bag to express the anger they have on you but was afraid to hurt you or your friendship if they tell you straight at the face.

in other Words, this saying is actually means a good friend will always understand you and always try their best to make things better for both sides.