Experiencing its worst flooding in over 30 years, Southern Thailand has seen the water levels rise as high as five meters (16 feet) in some areas near the Malaysian border.

While we all hope never to be involved in a natural disaster, when one occurs, I believe that if we can help others in need, we should. This time I found myself in a situation where all I could do was pray.

I had planned a trip to Hat Yai for months, but given the situation, I asked God whether I should go as planned or not. The answer was clear—I should go. It usually takes four hours from Surat Thani to Hat Yai, but that day was different. Rain poured without stopping, and I pressed on, hoping to reach my sister on the other side of the flooding.

What should have been a fifty-minute drive from Hat Yai to the border took what felt like an eternity. Traffic was backed up due to flooding, with four lanes reduced to one. The lanes on the other side of the highway had become a narrow canal, and I was stuck in an endless line of cars. But I remained patient. Hadn’t I faced traffic jams before? I thought I could handle it. But after two hours of barely moving, I began to worry. The water kept rising, and the rain wouldn’t stop. However, there was no turning back. Floodwaters surrounded me. Uncertainty overwhelmed me.

Trucks pushed forward through rising water, making waves that threatened smaller cars. My hope began to waver. Four hours passed, and I had not traveled four kilometers (2.5 miles). The sun began to set, and fear crept in. I was alone, unsure of how long I would be stuck or if I had enough fuel. I prayed and clung to God’s promises. The hymn “How Firm a Foundation” came to mind, reminding me that God was my refuge and giving me the courage to trust that He would see me through.

Eventually, I passed the bottleneck. The relief was indescribable as the tension lifted.

At that moment, I felt God speaking to me. In the last days, believers will face extreme challenges—pressure, discomfort and even despair. But if we hold onto our faith and hope in His promises, we will endure by His grace. When we look back, we will see that the trials were temporary, but the reward is eternal. The suffering, as heavy as it may seem, is just a moment compared to the everlasting life He offers.

• Twitter