Faith in the Fire: A Story of Perseverance from Ukraine with Dasha Novikova
In times of unimaginable hardship, faith often shines the brightest. In the heart of war-torn Ukraine, where uncertainty and fear have become daily companions, stories of unwavering faith continue to rise from the ashes. One such story belongs to Dasha Novikova, EEM’s National Director for Ukraine. Her courage and conviction have become a beacon of hope for many. Through her journey, we witness the power of faith in crisis, the resilience of the Ukrainian church, and the life-changing impact of Bible distribution in Ukraine.
As Dasha shares an intimate look into life in Ukraine, where war, fear, and uncertainty are daily realities, let’s explore raw and powerful stories of perseverance and hope. Her story is a testament to the unyielding strength of faith and the enduring power of God’s word, even amidst unimaginable heartbreak. These testimonies remind us that God’s Word brings light even in the darkest valleys.
(Photo from EEM Ministry Partner in Zhytomyr, Ukraine)
Stories of Hope: Unwavering Faith in Wartime Ukraine
In Ukraine, faith is not just a belief—it’s a lifeline. Through EEM’s Bible mission in Ukraine, countless Ukrainian refugees and internally displaced people have encountered the transformative power of Scripture. Amid air raids, bombings, and the daily fear that grips families, Bibles have become more than books—they are symbols of hope in war-torn Ukraine.
The war in Ukraine continues for its third year, bringing daily news of suffering, bombing, and immense loss. Despite the ongoing devastation, Dasha Novikova highlights a powerful truth: “in the dark times, you see the light more clearly”. This light, the faith of its people, shines brightly through the work of EM Ministry Ukraine. The demand for Bibles and trauma resolution resources is pouring in, and EEM is blessed to fulfill these requests, providing both spiritual and physical bread to those in need.
Perseverance in the Midst of Destruction
For over three years, Ukrainians have lived through relentless destruction, yet the stories of people inspire us all. One heartwarming example comes from Ivan, a 62-year-old man who stayed in his home after his family evacuated, only for his street and house to be “erased from the map”. When Christians arrived, he received a Bible and a small prayer book. He later shared how these books gave him hope, and he reads the Psalms every evening, praying when he’s scared of explosions. Ivan’s story is a powerful illustration of how God’s word can transform a life, even when everything else is destroyed.
Ivan’s testimony shows that even when everything seems lost, God’s Word offers peace that surpasses understanding. As he read Psalms each night amidst explosions, he realized God had not abandoned him. His story is a powerful illustration of how God’s word can transform a life, even when everything else is destroyed. It speaks to the core of Christian perseverance stories and the profound impact of Bible mission Ukraine.
Faith of a Young Mother Amid Crisis
Another moving account is that of Olena, a young mother who fled with her two children from a frontline village after prolonged shelling destroyed their home. Fleeing from frontline villages with her children, she and her children found refuge—and faith—through Christian and life-saving humanitarian aid in Ukraine. As complete strangers in a new village, they were afraid. When Christians arrived with humanitarian aid, they distributed children’s Bibles. Olena initially viewed the children’s Bible with distrust, but after a few days, she returned to thank them, explaining how her children began asking about God, and they now read together about the Good Samaritan.
Receiving a children’s Bible transformed their nights of fear into moments of hope. Her story illustrates how trauma-informed Christian resources and Bible distribution in Ukraine bring spiritual and emotional healing to those caught in unimaginable circumstances. This story beautifully showcases the reach of EEM free Bible distribution and the vital role of free Bibles for refugees, bringing eternal hope in the midst of immediate crisis.
The Weight of War and the Strength of Belief
Even as bombs fell and families fled, Dasha chose to stay. Her story is not just one of survival—it’s a testimony of faith in Ukraine that refuses to be extinguished. When the war began, Dasha could have left. Like many Ukrainian refugees, she had the opportunity to seek safety elsewhere. But her heart was anchored in her community. She stayed to serve, to comfort, and to share God’s Word in Ukraine—even when it meant risking her life.
Her days were filled with uncertainty, but her faith remained constant. “Even in the fire,” she said, “I knew God was with me.” Her words echo the spirit of Christian perseverance stories that inspire believers around the world.
The Role of Community and Church in Crisis
In these challenging times, the role of community and the church has become more vital than ever. Despite the war, EEM Ministry Ukraine continues to distribute free Bibles for refugees and trauma resolution materials to churches serving internally displaced people. Ukrainian church resilience is seen in congregations baking bread for frontline communities while sharing God’s love. This blend of physical and spiritual support provides a holistic response to crisis, embodying Christian perseverance stories that inspire the global church.
Dasha’s local church became a refuge—not just spiritually, but physically. As an internally displaced people in Ukraine sought shelter, the church opened its doors. It became a hub for Christian and humanitarian aid in Ukraine, offering food, prayer, and the comfort of Scripture. This is where EEM’s free Bible distribution played a vital role. With the help of Eastern European missions, churches like Dasha’s were equipped with Bibles in the Ukrainian language—resources that brought peace to those in turmoil.
Sustaining Hope Through Spiritual and Physical Bread
While EEM unfortunately had to close its humanitarian aid program due to a lack of funds, the local churches continue to be the hands and feet of God, demonstrating incredible resilience and resourcefulness. They are actively involved in Christian aid Ukraine, baking bread and delivering water to frontline areas where stores are non-existent. These efforts, though seemingly small, are profound acts of love and commitment, reaching those who have no other help arriving.
EEM continues to support these Christian organizations with funds for humanitarian aid and, crucially, with Bibles. These partners are not only distributing aid but also bringing “word of God and Bibles,” offering both spiritual and physical bread to the people. This holistic approach to Christian ministry in Ukraine ensures that people’s immediate needs are met while also addressing their deepest spiritual hunger.
The stories shared by Dasha highlight the tangible impact of these efforts. They are bringing heaven to earth by partnering with God. It’s about meeting immediate needs—a cup of cold water, warmth, and care—while also providing the eternal peace and hope found only in God’s Word. This ongoing support is crucial for internally displaced people in Ukraine and those living in war-torn areas, offering a beacon of hope in war-torn Ukraine.
Overcoming Trauma with Scripture-Based Resources
The widespread trauma experienced by Ukrainians is immense. Dasha witnessed children who couldn’t sleep, mothers who couldn’t stop crying, and men who had lost everything. But she also saw healing begin through trauma-informed Christian resources—especially when people encountered the truth of Scripture. “Reading the Psalms with a woman who had just lost her home,” Dasha shared, “was like watching light return to her eyes.” This is the heart of spiritual support in crises—meeting people where they are and reminding them they are not alone.
Recognizing the emotional toll and deep wounds left by war, EEM partners with organizations to distribute trauma-informed Christian resources like “When the Whole World Changes.” These materials help Ukrainians process grief and loss through a biblical lens, reinforcing that even when the world seems unrecognizable, God’s promises remain steadfast.
These trauma-informed Christian resources were developed by practical psychologists for those in conflict areas. These Bible-based resources offer “first emotional and spiritual aid,” helping people navigate and overcome their traumatic experiences. Resources like “Overcoming Adversity” are proving incredibly popular in churches assisting Ukrainian refugees and internally displaced persons. These materials guide individuals to gradually rediscover God’s love and hope, reminding them that suffering is a part of this world, but a caring God offers a way through.
Bible Distribution in Ukraine: Bringing Light to Dark Places
In the face of conflict, the demand for Bibles and Christian literature in Ukraine has surged. This hunger for God’s Word underscores the vital need for continued Bible mission efforts, ensuring that hope reaches the hearts of those suffering.
Expanding Ministry to Soldiers and Prisoners of War
In a powerful act of forgiveness and grace, EEM Ministry Ukraine seeks to provide Bibles not only to Ukrainian soldiers but also to Russian prisoners of war. By offering spiritual support in crises to those who once stood as enemies, EEM lives out Jesus’ call to “love your enemies” (Matthew 5:44), demonstrating faith in crisis beyond human logic.
Looking ahead, EEM is actively exploring new opportunities to provide God’s Word, including wider cooperation with military chaplains to strengthen and nourish soldiers with Bibles and New Testaments. In a remarkable display of God’s love, EEM is also trying to find ways to put God’s Word into the hands of Russian prisoners of war. Despite the pain and animosity, Dasha emphasizes that “as children of God, we know that Jesus died for them as well,” and they too need to hear about Him. This commitment to reaching all souls reflects the true spirit of Eastern European Missions and the boundless compassion of Christ.
Encouragement from the Ukrainian Church
Despite exhaustion, Ukrainian believers remain united like never before, laying aside differences to focus on reaching people with God’s love. Churches across Ukraine, from Kyiv to Kharkiv, are providing Christian aid in Ukraine that includes Bibles, emotional support, and trauma counseling.
Dasha’s personal experience, as a two-time refugee herself, having to flee both the Donbas region and Kyiv, underscores the profound impact of this war. She describes the constant fear and anxiety of having family in Ukraine, living “one night at a time” due to frequent nighttime attacks. Her deep desire, and the prayer for all, is for this war to end and for justice to prevail. It is a plea for the world not to ignore such immense destruction and suffering.
EEM also seeks prayers for the seeds of God’s Word that have been planted during this time, that they will truly grow and help people navigate these profound changes. There is confidence that this preached Gospel is not in vain, and the spiritual fruit will grow. This call to prayer highlights the deep faith in Ukraine and the hope for lasting spiritual impact.
A Gift of Eternal Value: Partnering for Free Bible Distribution
EEM continues to rely on faithful supporters to sustain Bible distribution efforts. Every donation equips churches with resources to minister to families who’ve lost homes and loved ones, ensuring the seeds of faith sown during these trials will bear fruit for generations. Dasha’s church partnered with EEM Ministry Ukraine, a local outreach that works closely with EEM. Together, they coordinated Christian aid in Ukraine, delivered Bibles, and offered prayer and counseling to those in need. This collaboration reflects the strength of Eastern European missions—organizations coming together to serve with compassion and purpose.
For those who had lost everything, receiving a Bible felt like gaining something eternal. One man told Dasha, “I lost my home, but now I’ve found hope.” These are the moments that define Bible distribution in Ukraine—not just handing out books, but planting seeds of faith.
Stories of Hope, Faith, and Transformation in the Rubble
From frontline villages to temporary shelters, stories of hope and faith abound. As people encounter God through Scripture, their lives are transformed despite the ongoing turmoil. These stories echo the power of God’s Word Ukraine to restore and renew hearts. Every Bible handed out carried a story. A grandmother who had never read Scripture before. A teenager who found peace in Proverbs. A soldier who clung to Romans 8 during sleepless nights. These are the stories of hope and faith that continue to emerge from the rubble.
Faith in Crisis, Faith That Endures
As the war stretches on, Dasha Novikova reminds us that prayer is vital. Pray for justice, an end to the conflict, and for the seeds of faith planted through EEM free Bible distribution to grow deep roots.Pray also for EEM ministry and everyone in the field of mission in a war-torn Ukraine as they seek new ways to provide hope, including partnering with military chaplains and reaching prisoners of war with God’s Word. Dasha’s story is not unique—but it is powerful. It represents the countless believers who are choosing hope in hardship, who are living out faith in the fire, and who are proving that perseverance in Ukraine is not just possible—it’s thriving.
H3: Support for Ministry and Mission in Ukraine
Churches across Ukraine are standing strong. They are feeding the hungry, sheltering the displaced, and proclaiming the Gospel. Their resilience is a testament to the Spirit of God at work in the most difficult circumstances.
- Interceding for the Ukrainian People
Pray for peace, safety, and emotional healing for those who have suffered unimaginable loss. Ask God to comfort those who’ve lost family, health, or hope, and to reveal His love to those still searching. - Supporting Bible Mission Ukraine Financially
Your generosity helps EM Ministry Ukraine continue distributing Bibles and trauma-informed resources, empowering churches to be beacons of light. Every gift—large or small—brings hope where it’s needed most.
H3: Sharing Stories of Hope and Faith
Spread the word about these testimonies. Sharing these Ukrainian refugee stories and Christian perseverance stories helps raise awareness of the ongoing need and invites others to join in prayer and support.
Conclusion: Faith That Cannot Be Burned
Dasha Novikova’s story reminds us that even in the fiercest fire, faith can endure. The stories she shared are a powerful testament to the perseverance, resilience, and unwavering hope in hardship of the Ukrainian church that comes from a deep faith. Stories which remind us that even in seasons of war, faith in Ukraine is alive and unshakeable. Even in the darkest moments, God’s light is seen more clearly, transforming hearts and bringing hope where it seems impossible. EEM remains dedicated to distributing God’s Word and providing crucial spiritual and emotional support.
As we witness the ongoing impact of Bible distribution in Ukraine, we are reminded that God’s Word never returns void. It brings comfort, courage, and conviction—even in the darkest of times. Through Bible distribution, trauma-informed care, and the unwavering commitment of the Ukrainian church, God’s Word continues to bring light, healing, and hope. With the efforts of EEM and countless local churches, the light of the Gospel continues to shine in Ukraine. As believers around the world, we can stand with Ukraine in prayer and support, trusting that God’s Word will not return void but accomplish His purpose—even in the fire. Because when faith is in the fire—it shines.
We invite you to partner with EEM in this vital mission, through your prayers and support, to continue bringing hope and the light of God’s truth to those in dire need. To learn more about how you can contribute, visit eem.org.
Follow us on: PRAY.COM
