Shows
Life in ExileO Death, Where Is Your Victory?Carol reflects on how death has been swallowed up in victory through Christ as she reflects a decade later on the loss of her husband.
2025-11-2104 min
Life in ExileNew Book Release: A Cozy Mystery Entitled Archived by DeathCarol B. Ghattas branches out into a new genre with Archived by Death, a cozy mystery set in the Tennessee State Library and Archives.
2025-07-0903 min
Life in ExileWhen Home Is Not Where Your Heart IsMaking a home in a new place of service doesn't always come with ease and we can be left longing for the comfort of the familiar. If you struggle with finding home, Carol Ghattas has a new book to help.
2022-09-2703 min
Life in ExileMore With LessInflation affects missionaries too. How can we manage on less when our salaries are already low? Carol Ghattas has some ideas on living more with less.
2022-07-1105 min
Life in ExilePacking UpWhat you choose to take overseas inevitably looks a lot different from what you bring back. Listening and asking questions will help you find a balance as you go.
2021-11-2303 min
Life in ExileLessons from the Mountainside 18In following Jesus, it's not just that do good, but do it in secret. In this, we achieve the level of righteousness he requires and our reward from God.
2021-11-2004 min
Life in ExileThe Theme of GodIs God the theme of your life? Does he receive credit for any good that you do or that people see in you? Your life and words may be the only glimpse of God some may ever see.
2021-11-1703 min
Life in ExileJars of Clay, Willing VesselsBeing available to connect others is a great way God allows us to be part of the process in another's life and spiritual journey. We can find great joy, even when it means we step back so they can step forward.
2021-11-1603 min
Life in ExileLessons from the Mountainside 17What makes us reflect the perfection of God? Loving those who are not like us. And not just loving them but praying for them as well. This is how ordinary Christians live extraordinary lives to the glory of Christ.
2021-11-1205 min
Life in ExileThe God Over AllThe way we view God affects the way we live out our Christian life. It's important that the way we do that reflects on the true nature of the God we serve.
2021-11-1003 min
Life in ExileMultiplicationInvesting in others not only prepares them for ministry but allows us to leave the work in their hands when it's time for us to move on. Are you working yourself out of a job or holding on?
2021-11-0803 min
Life in ExileLessons from the Mountainside 16Doing good to those who do good to us is expected. Doing good to those who do us evil sends a message that brings glory to Christ.
2021-11-0605 min
Life in ExilePain UnderstoodWhen pain hits, God understands. Why? How? Because he loved us enough to suffer with and for us.
2021-11-0403 min
Life in ExileOne Door Closed, Another Door OpenedDoors don't close in ministry without another door opening. It might not look the same, but it will be just as full of blessings as we walk through it in obedient expectation. What's an unexpected place God's taken you where you've found him at work?
2021-11-0104 min
Life in ExileLessons from the Mountainside 15How are you doing these days with keeping your word? There's only one who has never broken his word, so we need to stick to simple yes and no answers. Anything else will not help our witness.
2021-10-2904 min
Life in ExileThe Response to SufferingThe gift of his son for our salvation is God's response to the suffering of mankind under the weight of sin.
2021-10-2703 min
Life in ExileIt's Not FairAwareness of the power of emotions keeps us from growing bitter when doors close in life and ministry.
2021-10-2505 min
Life in ExileLessons from the Mountainside 14When Jesus's words sound harsh and strict, it's good to dig deep into they why of his ways. It's always for our good.
2021-10-2205 min
Life in ExileThe Relationship that SatisfiesAre you struggling with relationships? Think today if it might be due to the fact that you don't first have the only relationship that satisfies -- with God.
2021-10-2003 min
Life in ExileFinishing the RaceChange is hard, even when God is clearly closing a door to service. Leaving behind empowered and blessed group to carry on the work is a great boost to our own ability to leave with grace and peace.
2021-10-1804 min
Life in ExileLessons from the Mountainside 13Can we find redemption from sexual sins? What about sexual desires? Jesus has the answer for both. Actually, Jesus is the answer.
2021-10-1604 min
Life in ExileBe PreparedWhat are you doing to stay strong in the face of spiritual opposition? All that the Bible teaches about the end times is already at work in our world today. Are you aware? Are you prepared?
2021-10-1408 min
Life in ExileReturning to Serve After LossIs there service after loss? Can we not just press on? Some say yes, but God allows for grief.
2021-10-1205 min
Life in ExileLessons from the Mountainside 12Righteous living doesn't start with an outward act but an inner attitude.
2021-10-0806 min
Life in ExileThe SourceAs the source of all life, as triune God, the Lord shares himself with us through creation and ultimately through his Son and Spirit.
2021-10-0603 min
Life in ExileSeasons in ServiceJust as in nature, there are natural seasons in ministry. With each change, doors will close but others open.
2021-10-0405 min
Life in ExileLessons from the Mountainside 11Choosing to follow Christ doesn't mean we throw away the rulebook, it just means we live according to God's rules out of love him and by the righteousness we receive through grace in faith.
2021-10-0205 min
Life in ExileRepairedIt is a fact that Christians sin. It is also a reality that by confession they find forgiveness and repair to the broken soul.
2021-09-3003 min
Life in ExileWhen You Know It's Time to GoSometimes leaving a place isn't about pain but about peace, and that peace comes from God to let you know it's time to go.
2021-09-2803 min
Life in ExileLessons from the Mountainside 10In Christ, we are the lights of the world. What does that mean? What does it look like? What reaction does it bring?
2021-09-2506 min
Life in ExileWhat God Has Joined TogetherDon't let your brokenness stop you from letting Jesus use you for his purposes. Bring him the pieces, and he'll make them whole.
2021-09-2303 min
Life in ExileBurnoutWe need rest and rejuvenation to keep moving forward in ministry. Jesus tells us how to find it.
2021-09-2105 min
Life in ExileLessons from the Mountainside 9Salt always gets a reaction. As Christ-followers, may our flavor lead others to taste and see that the Lord is good.
2021-09-1804 min
Life in ExileConfession Is Good for the SoulWhy do Christians have to keep confessing sins? Because we're still a work in progress on this earth. Christ's work is done, but we still have to keep our slate clean through confession in order for him to have full reign and glory in our lives.
2021-09-1603 min
Life in ExileBirthday BluesBirthdays can be times when the blues set in, even for parents of children serving overseas. Don't let the blues deter your celebration no matter how insignificant you think it might be.
2021-09-1406 min
Life in ExileLessons from the Mountainside 8Is persecution inevitable? It is for the person seeking first the Kingdom of God.
2021-09-1105 min
2021-09-0903 min
Life in ExileI DisagreeDisagreements can close doors to ministry. How do you maintain unity when conflict rises? Listen before you speak.
2021-09-0704 min
Life in ExileLessons from the Mountainside 7Finding it hard to see people of peace? Jesus is out there looking for them too. Will you be one?
2021-09-0404 min
Life in ExileThe Sin of SelfMy will over God's will is the foundation of sin. We'll win so many more battles when we make Christ our Commanding Officer.
2021-09-0203 min
Life in ExileCrisis of FaithWhen a comfortable faith is made uncomfortable by poverty, injustice, and evil, a crisis is sure to follow. Don't lose the battle.
2021-08-3105 min
Life in ExileLessons from the Mountainside 6What does it mean to see the face of God? Can anyone see it and live? You can if you have a pure heart, for you will see his face in the good of others.
2021-08-2804 min
Life in ExileThe RequirementSalvation may be free but it's not without a cost on Christ's part and an act of repentance on ours. Sin must be recognized to accept the grace God offers through Christ.
2021-08-2603 min
2021-08-2404 min
Life in ExileLessons from the Mountainside 5Showing mercy softens our heart to injustice but also opens us up to pain. Jesus shows mercy to people such as this.
2021-08-2104 min
Life in ExileImpatientNothing can get better if you do nothing about it. Change only comes with an act of the will. Forgiveness comes that way too.
2021-08-1903 min
Life in ExileThe Year of the CancerThe stuff of life can distract us from ministry, but it can also open doors to God's glory. Don't be afraid to let yourself deal with the hard things.
2021-08-1705 min
The Gospel Mobilization PodcastNavigating Closed Doors in Mobilization with Carol GhattasWhat do you do when a missions mobilization door seems to close? Whether it's a global pandemic, people struggling with life controlling addictions, or facing health challenges, this episode will equip you with ways to navigate the seemingly closed doors of serving in missions. Listen in as Dave has a conversation with Carol Ghattas. Carol has served for over twenty years in overseas missions, the majority of that time in the Middle East and North Africa, and has vast experience with closed doors. This episode will equip mobilizers, missionaries, missions pastors and leaders, or those interested in...
2021-08-1626 min
Life in ExileLessons from the Mountainside 4What are you hungry and thirsty for? The things of this world or right standing with God? There's only one way to find satisfaction in life--look to Jesus.
2021-08-1304 min
Life in ExileBut NotFeeling loaded down by the struggles of this life? Share your load with Jesus and others in the Body of Christ. Find relief and strength through vulnerability and trust.
2021-08-1105 min
Life in ExileWorking While We CanHas sudden change left you feeling there is unfinished business where you were serving? Start now working while you still can wherever you are to be able to leave without regret.
2021-08-0904 min
Life in ExileLessons from the Mountainside 3In a world where self-promotion is endemic, Jesus chooses the humble for his inheritance. Does that include you?
2021-08-0705 min
Life in ExileParadoxFeeling like you're the odd man out? That's the normal state for those living by God's rules. Don't fret, because one day, when Jesus returns, our abnormal will become normal.
2021-08-0503 min
Life in ExileDid I Hear You Right, God?What do you do when you're called to serve, but the door to service closes? You're packed, but can't move forward. Do you begin to doubt God's call?
2021-08-0305 min
Life in ExileLessons from the Mountainside 2Are you drowning in grief? Know the blessing of the One who sees you mourn and provides comfort.
2021-07-3105 min
Life in ExileBrokenWe are broken creatures, and God has the fix. Once accepted, we need to remember and be grateful that he was broken to make our wholeness possible.
2021-07-2904 min
Life in ExileClearing the ClutterToo much stuff can hinder the ability to move quickly and live lightly. What can you do today to clear the clutter in your life?
2021-07-2704 min
Life in ExileLessons from the Mountainside 1Jesus sits on the mountainside and lets even the poorest in spirit know the kingdom of heaven is theirs. Who needs to hear that word today?
2021-07-2305 min
Life in ExileThe ResultDo you question the reason for all the suffering in our world today? Do you question how God could allow it? Suffering and pain is the result of a world marred by sin, for which God offers a solution.
2021-07-2103 min
Life in ExileExpectation CheckHaving unrealistic expectations is like wearing rose-colored glasses into service. Better to do a pre-flight check of your expectations to help insure a smoother transition to unchartered territory for his glory.
2021-07-2005 min
Life in ExileA Message Worth BelievingThe Word of the Lord in Isaiah 52 and 53, written hundreds of years before Christ, is a message worth believing. Belief in this message is belief in the gospel, the good news, and that message brings eternal benefits.
2021-07-1606 min
Life in ExileDoubtIt's the oldest trick in the book, but Satan continues to use it every day. What question has he planted in your mind to get you to doubt God? Don't let him lead you down that road to darkness. Remember the promises and goodness of God.
2021-07-1403 min
Life in ExileFinding Inspiration for ServiceWhere do you find inspiration to press on in service for the Kingdom? Look into the lives of biblical personalities and missionary biographies to be reminded that we all struggle, fail, and yet can rise up again to finish the race.
2021-07-1204 min
The Missions ShowWhen Doors Close: Carol Ghattas on Changing Course in MissionsSometimes doors close in missions. Visas are revoked, governments change policy, or unrest breaks out and endangers expats. How should missionaries respond to these changes? This week we talk to Carol Ghattas about her latest book When Doors Close: Changing Course in Missions Without Losing Your Way.
With over thirty years in missions, Carol Ghattas writes and speaks from experience. Ghattas worked among Laotians, West Africans, and Arabs, and she co-authored with her late husband Raouf, A Christian Guide to the Qur’an: Building Bridges in Muslim Evangelism. She has written three novels under the pen name Um...
2021-07-1228 minThe Missions ShowWhen Doors Close: Carol Ghattas on Changing Course in MissionsSometimes doors close in missions. Visas are revoked, governments change policy, or unrest breaks out and endangers expats. How should missionaries respond to these changes? This week we talk to Carol Ghattas about her latest book When Doors Close: Changing Course in Missions Without Losing Your Way.
With over thirty years in missions, Carol Ghattas writes and speaks from experience. Ghattas worked among Laotians, West Africans, and Arabs, and she co-authored with her late husband Raouf, A Christian Guide to the Qur’an: Building Bridges in Muslim Evangelism. She has written three novels under the pen name Um...
2021-07-1228 min
The Missions ShowWhen Doors Close: Carol Ghattas on Changing Course in MissionsSometimes doors close in missions. Visas are revoked, governments change policy, or unrest breaks out and endangers expats. How should missionaries respond to these changes? This week we talk to Carol Ghattas about her latest book When Doors Close: Changing Course in Missions Without Losing Your Way.
With over thirty years in missions, Carol Ghattas writes and speaks from experience. Ghattas worked among Laotians, West Africans, and Arabs, and she co-authored with her late husband Raouf, A Christian Guide to the Qur’an: Building Bridges in Muslim Evangelism. She has written three novels under the pen name Um...
2021-07-1228 minThe Missions ShowWhen Doors Close: Carol Ghattas on Changing Course in MissionsSometimes doors close in missions. Visas are revoked, governments change policy, or unrest breaks out and endangers expats. How should missionaries respond to these changes? This week we talk to Carol Ghattas about her latest book When Doors Close: Changing Course in Missions Without Losing Your Way.
With over thirty years in missions, Carol Ghattas writes and speaks from experience. Ghattas worked among Laotians, West Africans, and Arabs, and she co-authored with her late husband Raouf, A Christian Guide to the Qur’an: Building Bridges in Muslim Evangelism. She has written three novels under the pen name Um...
2021-07-1228 min
The Missions ShowWhen Doors Close: Carol Ghattas on Changing Course in MissionsSometimes doors close in missions. Visas are revoked, governments change policy, or unrest breaks out and endangers expats. How should missionaries respond to these changes? This week we talk to Carol Ghattas about her latest book When Doors Close: Changing Course in Missions Without Losing Your Way.
With over thirty years in missions, Carol Ghattas writes and speaks from experience. Ghattas worked among Laotians, West Africans, and Arabs, and she co-authored with her late husband Raouf, A Christian Guide to the Qur’an: Building Bridges in Muslim Evangelism. She has written three novels under the pen name Um...
2021-07-1228 minThe Missions ShowWhen Doors Close: Carol Ghattas on Changing Course in MissionsSometimes doors close in missions. Visas are revoked, governments change policy, or unrest breaks out and endangers expats. How should missionaries respond to these changes? This week we talk to Carol Ghattas about her latest book When Doors Close: Changing Course in Missions Without Losing Your Way.
With over thirty years in missions, Carol Ghattas writes and speaks from experience. Ghattas worked among Laotians, West Africans, and Arabs, and she co-authored with her late husband Raouf, A Christian Guide to the Qur’an: Building Bridges in Muslim Evangelism. She has written three novels under the pen name Um...
2021-07-1228 min
Life in ExileA Message to Be Believed Pt10Yes, Christ suffered, but it did not last forever. Suffering ended as salvation came and was made available to all. Purpose in pain finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus. Will you believe?
2021-07-1005 min
Life in ExileIs Sin Real?Do you try to ignore the reality of sin? Hard to do these days, or any day, for that matter? The good thing about sin is that there is a solution, but you have to make a choice to find it.
2021-07-0803 min
Life in ExileDon't Pack the Past When Leaving for the FutureCarrying too much emotional and relational baggage can weigh us down in service. What do you need to let go of or make right before leaving for the mission field?
2021-07-0605 min
Life in ExileA Message to Be Believed Pt9Why would God will hard things to happen or injustice done? While he may allow it in our lives, he willed it in Christ's that we might have eternal life. Do you believe it?
2021-07-0303 min
Life in ExileLife Out of MessSometimes, actually most of the time, the process to being made useful for service is messy and painful. When we are willing to go through it, he blesses us by allowing us to see the beauty he brings to the lives of others.
2021-07-0105 min
Life in ExileTent LivingDoes a love of home keep you from moving and ministering for the Kingdom? Maybe it's time to live in a tent for Jesus.
2021-06-2905 min
Life in ExileA Message to Be Believed Pt8Silent in suffering and death. Jesus faced the ultimate injustice that we might live.
2021-06-2602 min
Life in ExileWitness Protection ProgramAre you scared to witness? Do you doubt God's protection? Put your fears away and join the Witness Protection Program.
2021-06-2403 min
Life in ExileThe Many Shades of CallingHas a closed door shaken your sense of calling? Don't forget that God's call is dynamic, not static.
2021-06-2203 min
Life in ExileA Message to Be Believed Pt7Do you believe the price Christ paid for you? Whether you do or not does not deny the reality of his sacrifice, it just denies your ability to benefit from it.
2021-06-1903 min
Life in ExileFreedom and AccountabilityWhat is gained and lost in moving from singleness to marriage and from marriage to parenthood? Is it good to lose freedom? Can accountability be a blessing? Find out in the special guest blog.
2021-06-1705 min
Life in ExileGet Out FastClosed doors can come suddenly and interrupt the happiest of times. Does God not understand? Of course he does, and he also knows best. Going through such times teach us great lessons of life and faith.
2021-06-1503 min
Life in ExileA Message to Be Believed Pt6How can anyone believe that the Savior of the World would be a Man of sorrows? They can, because that is who Jesus was, and he was for us.
2021-05-2904 min
Life in ExileCome Buy Without MoneyNothing in life is free, for even that which is freely given either comes with strings attached or at a great cost. For the salvation we receive in Christ, the cost has been paid and the gift is freely given. We just have to accept.
2021-05-2703 min
Life in ExileThe School of ExperienceRead, study, prepare and then experience. In experience you gain the greatest of lessons, and they are lessons worth sharing. This is why I wrote When Doors Close.
2021-05-2504 min
Life in ExileA Message to Be Believed Pt5The Servant Christ looked nothing like the servant Israel. Jesus will be ultimately raised up and highly exalted, and when he is, only those who believed the message will be rejoicing. Believe the message before it's too late.
2021-05-2104 min
Life in ExileNeed versus MeWhat do we do with the needs of this world? How can I say no when someone asks for my help? Why can't I do it all? Ask Him.
2021-05-2004 min
Life in ExileWhen Doors Close: My New Book for Those in Cross-Cultural MinistryHear about my newest book, "When Doors Close: Changing Course in Missions Without Losing Your Way."
2021-05-1803 min
Life in ExileA Message to Be Believed Pt4We need to prepare our hearts and minds to carry the message of Christ to a lost and dying world. As we share, we can be confident that God goes before us and protects us.
2021-05-1503 min
Life in ExileThe Jesus TestIt's so easy in these dark days to be deceived by things that sound good. There has never been a greater time to test the spirits. The answer key is Jesus.
2021-05-1305 min
Life in ExileWherever He Leads I'll GoGod calls. We answer, but then we have to make the final decision about where to serve. It's not easy. What can be done?
2021-05-1107 min
Life in ExileA Message to Be Believed Pt3He has come, and he's coming again. This is cause for celebration. No matter what your day looks like, with Christ we can have peace and hope.
2021-05-0804 min
Life in ExileLet's Have a HootenannyPictures and words can trigger deep memories of a life gone by. A memory of my parents was triggered by some homemade rhythm instruments and a long word. What triggers yours?
2021-05-0603 min
Life in ExileAntioch StoriesThere is a tradition that has carried on for over 2,000 years. It's the tradition of missionaries sharing with their sending church all that God has done. These are Antioch stories.
2021-05-0404 min
Life in ExileA Message to Be Believed Pt2What makes you want to run fast and tell someone something? When it's good news. That's exactly what we should be doing with the message of Christ.
2021-05-0105 min
Life in ExileThe Grace of Humble PieHave you asked for patience and then had a chance to prove it? What about humility? What do we do when we're tested? Look for his grace.
2021-04-2903 min
Life in ExileTrue FastingHave you ever fasted? What does fasting mean to you? Is it a diet? A religious requirement? Something mystical? What is the fasting God requires?
2021-04-2705 min
Life in ExileA Message to Be Believed Pt1Is the message of salvation through a suffering savior one to be believed? Yes. Who do we share it with? Those who blaspheme the name of our God.
2021-04-2403 min
Life in ExileTo Join or Not to JoinAre you a member of a church? Is membership important? What does commitment mean? What does the Bible say?
2021-04-2207 min
Life in ExilePerfection DefectionWhat is one of the leading causes of defection from the mission field? Disappointment due to the need for perfection or control, as it's commonly termed. What's the cure? Surrender.
2021-04-2006 min
Life in ExileTaking Time to PrayIn the best of times, in the worst of times, Jesus prays. What about you? Think about that as you review John 17.
2021-04-1705 min