Need Some Grace for 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

I’ve been meditating on this verse lately as I study through Hebrews.  Take a look at what God’s been revealing to me.  I hope it encourages you today.

First, a few words in the original language (of course!)

Help – “boētheia” – aid, help; specially, a rope or chain for frapping a vessel.  Frapping means to bind with a view to secure and strengthen.

Need – “eukairos” – well-timed, opportune.

Grace – “charis” – that which affords joy; the good will, merciful kindness by which God, exerting his Holy influence upon souls, turns them to Christ, keeps, strengthens and increases them in faith and knowledge.  Especially God’s divine influence upon the heart and its reflection in the life, including gratitude.

Frapping —my new favorite word!  I love the picture the original language provides for this word, help — the frapping of a vessel.  We CAN, with confidence and assurance,  approach the throne of grace. We CAN call and cry out ANY time we need some securing and strengthening.  His grace is the rope used for “frapping” our vessel when it is drifting or sinking.  Grace!  Read that definition above again and really take it all in.  I love how the God of grace, the God of all comfort is always ready when I need “frapping” and it is always well-timed!  When the waters are washing over me and threatening to sink this ship, He is right there!  I just have to call out. In His presence I am secure.  In His presence I find the strength I need for the moment.