One of my living heroes is Charlotte Day.

Charlotte is a missionary who lives in Malawi, Africa assisting grandmothers who are caring for their orphaned grandchildren; orphaned largely from the AIDS pandemic. Charlotte wrote to me a letter on joy for a Bible study class I am teaching. It is full of golden nuggets on how to live and walk in the joy of the Lord. I, Kim wanted to share it with you.

Charlotte’s Letter to Us

I am not always 'joyful'…but know I always have the "Joy' of the Lord….that is part of the work of His Holy Spirit, isn't it? ...and continually increasing and perfecting joy in our lives! I would say three things are essential for experiencing Joy: Lordship, Leaning on the Word, Letting 'go' (of things, control)--being 'flexible'!

Lordship The Christian life was a 'performance' for me until I understood and really knew the 'freedom' I had in Christ, letting His resident Holy Spirit work. And, this is the secret, Christ lives in you…Col.1:27

Leaning on the Word You made me so happy, God. I saw your work and I shouted for joy. Ps 92:4 Then, the Word became alive as I studied 'Joy' and it translated to "happenings" in daily life. It is the same with my word. I send it out and it always produces fruit. It will accomplish all I want it to. You will live in joy and peace. Is.55:1-12.

Letting Go Then, being flexible…and I thank the Lord for that as in 62 years of married life we have lived and worked in many countries and have seen God lead in ways we would never have dreamed or planned! And, we have had lots of challenges, disappointments and heartaches! God has used these in the past; I am excited about what's ahead, yet content with the present. I'm glad in God…I've learned by now to be quite content whatever my circumstances. Phil 4:10 I'm just as happy with little as with much, with much as with little--I've found the recipe for being happy whether full or hungry (seminary days, oatmeal was our mainstay!), hands full or hands empty. (Corporate executive to missionary!) Whatever I have, wherever I am; I can make it through anything in the One who makes me who I am. Phil.4:14

What really excites me and gives me joy is seeing God in the everyday activities of ordinary life! How he brings people and situations together for a purpose, the 'just right' timing of events with family, ministry, relationships. The joy of the Lord is my strength and shield. I trust Him with all my heart. He helps me and my heart is filled with joy. Ps.28:7 NLT

We become stronger in our faith and then more joy…and the cycles goes on!