In 1836, Samuel F. B. Morse along with Joseph Henry and Alfred Vail, developed a method of communication consisting of intermittent electrical pulses sent through the wires of a telegraph system. The language became known as Morse code.
Probably the best-known Morse code signal is the S.O.S, a cyphered gram that has become synonymous with distress calls. The letters associated with the signal have become popular acronyms for phrases such as save our ship or save our soul. I have my own acronym for S.O.S. – SEEK OUT SUPPORT.
During an extremely difficult week, Satan was attacking every area of insecurity that I had, and my spirit was sinking fast.
I tried everything to pull myself out of this pit of despair but nothing worked. I even got up earlier in the morning so I could spend more time than usual in prayer and Bible study, but still my spirit remained overwhelmed with gloom. I felt weighted down by what felt like a wet blanket of despair.
Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? (Psalm 42:5a)
I had no idea what caused my gloom and didn’t know how to break out of it, but I did recognize my need for help. After a few days of trying to fight my way out of depression alone, I eventually sent out a distress call to my family and friends, asking for prayer.
Shortly after my plea, people began calling and sending me messages of hope and encouragement. Slowly the fog began to lift from my spirit, and within no time, I was back to my old self again.
God recognized our need for human companionship and support from the very beginning. “The Lord God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.” (Genesis 2:18)
The Lord sends us encouragement through Scriptures, songs, and sermon messages. But when He hears the desperate cry of a dejected soul in need of support, He goes the extra mile sends someone with skin.
“You, Lord, hear the desire of the afflicted; you encourage them, and you listen to their cry…” (Psalm 10:17)
Sometimes we just need the extra boost of encouragement through the physical touch or audible voice of a loved one. There is no shame in needing the support of others.
The next time you are burdened with a heavy heart and downcast spirit, send out your own S.O.S—SEEK OUT SUPPORT.
“We urge you, brothers and sisters … encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone.” (1 Thessalonians 5:14)
