FRAPPING

"Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need."                  
                              -Hebrews 4:16  (ESV)

There is a Greek term in this verse that is used only twice in the entire New Testament. The Greek term often translated as "help" is "boetheian".  To better understand this term let's examine its other usage in Acts 27:17...

"After hoisting it up, they used supports to undergird the ship."

The context of the Acts passage is a storm at sea in which the apostle Paul was caught.  As one last measure to hold together the beaten ship, the sailors used "boetheiais" or "helps" (KJV), to undergird the ship.  Technically, this procedure is called "frapping."  Cables are passed underneath the ship and tied around the  hull in an attempt to hold the ship together.

Thus the writer of Hebrews, by using this term, intended to encourage his readers to seek God's undergirding in their time of need.

What areas of your life need to be "undergirded" by God?


Let's look at the broader context of Hebrews...

14 Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. 15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. 16 Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. -Hebrews 4:14-16 (ESV)

Jesus is our source for strength and help. So, maybe its time for you to do some "frapping" in your life.