Have you ever seen a movie where the captain of a boat or plane is about to crash, and says: “Mayday, Mayday, Mayday”?

 What does the term Mayday mean? It appears to be a call for help, but what is the true definition of the word? 

The meaning for the word “MAYDAY” is an international distress code used to signal a life-threatening emergency and to be repeated three times in a row so that it is clearly communicated that the situation is dire and could have life or death implications. Frederick Stanley, who created this word in 1923, and apparently “Mayday” comes from the French word “m’aidez” that means “help me”. Calling for help like this would be pointless if someone on the other end doesn’t receive the transmission. 

Throughout King David’s life he encountered life threatening circumstances that posed dead end consequences. Although, in Psalm 86 we read that in his darkest hours he trusted his Lord: “Hear, O Lord, my prayer, and hearken to the voice of my supplications. In the day of my distress I will call you, because you answer me” He signaled for help to the one that was always listening and was able to help him.

Our most challenging situations can become the catalyst for a deeper relationship with the Lord. The most encouraging part is knowing that God is always hearing our call for help and He is more than able to help us. Whatever your current situation, you can always call on God for help, He is a master in rescue operations.