Sabina's Faith

A sharp contrast existed between the beautiful Romanian countryside and the sufferings that Christians and Jews experienced at the hands of invading Nazis and Communists. For Sabina Wurmbrand, the troubles were threefold: She was both a Christian and a Jew and also the wife of a renowned pastor.

    One day she learned that her mother, father, three younger sisters, and nine-year-old brother had all been brutally murdered in a concentration camp. That day her faith became alive and real.
    Full of God’s grace, Sabina said, “I will not show a sad face. I owe to God a joyous believer; to the church, an example of courage; and to my husband, a serene wife.”
    Sabina never let her personal grief and agony hinder her from being a public encourager to those around her. In her mind, she didn’t have a choice. Death and suffering, especially among the members of the underground church, were prevalent. Many eyes were on her as the pastor’s wife. If she lost hope, what hope would they have?
    Sabina later spent three years in prison and slave labor camps, where women faced the most humiliating and brutal acts of all prisoners. Yet even in prison, she was known as a friend to all, and she always had a kind word.
    Before leaving Romania, God gave Sabina her reward. She and her husband, Richard, later brought their family’s murderer to Christ!

Pastoring is a partnership between pastors and their mates. One is not complete without the ministry and encouragement of the other. God does not call any Christian to work and live in isolation—he calls us to community. We need other Christians to come alongside us in our ministries and give us wisdom and encouragement from time to time. We are not expected to do it alone—nor should we try. Think about your own sphere of influence. Who is your partner in ministry? Who is praying for you to be an effective witness in your workplace, home, or school? Ask God to lead you to a companion Christian who will encourage you and strengthen you when you need it.