Shows
The Unfair AdvantageEP 047 | Chris Goulard on Navigating Personal Finances as a PastorIn this episode of The Unfair Advantage, David Hibiske sits down with Chris Goulard to tackle a topic many pastors and church planters quietly struggle with: personal finances. Drawing from decades of experience in both Wall Street and church ministry, Chris shares why financial stewardship is not just a practical necessity but a pastoral responsibility. Together, they explore the unique financial realities pastors face, from housing allowance and Social Security decisions to retirement planning and budgeting, while emphasizing the importance of theological clarity, discipline, and long-term vision. This conversation offers pastors practical wisdom to care for their families well...
2026-02-0352 minThe Unfair AdvantageEP 046 | Aaron Brockett on Burnout, Growth, and MissionIn this episode, David Hibiske sits down with Aaron Brockett, Lead Pastor of Traders Point Christian Church. Aaron shares his leadership journey from parachute-drop church planting to long-term pastoral ministry through succession. Aaron reflects honestly on the challenges of early church planting, burnout, and the refining work God does through pain, humility, and endurance. He discusses discovering his leadership and preaching voice over time, the importance of self-awareness and team leadership, and how longevity in one place shapes both credibility and calling. The conversation also highlights Traders Point’s deep partnership with Missions of Hope International and offers encouragement to...
2026-01-0639 minThe Unfair AdvantageEP 045 | Frank Bealer on Developing a Culture of Generosity in Your ChurchIn this episode, David Hibiske sits down with Frank Bealer, CEO of Generis and former Elevation Church leader, to talk about the discipleship-driven approach to generosity every church planter needs. Frank unpacks why pastors must stop “being weird about money,” how to build a healthy, biblical culture of giving from day one, and the practical rhythms that shape generosity year-round. From teaching frameworks to meeting with top givers, Frank offers clear, actionable guidance to help church planters lead confidently in one of the most essential (and often uncomfortable) areas of ministry.Welcome to Episode 045 of T...
2025-12-0939 minThe Unfair AdvantageEP 044 | Jeff Bennett on Finding & Developing LeadersToday, David Hibiske sits down with Jeff Bennett, Executive Director of Multiply Project and Ascent Leader Church Planter Cohort coach, to unpack lessons learned from years of church planting and leader development. Jeff shares his personal journey from planting LifeBridge Church to transitioning into coaching and equipping planters nationwide. He offers wisdom on focusing less on “the what” and more on “the who,” developing leaders from within, and shifting from readiness to potential when identifying future church planters. This is a rich conversation on self-awareness, humility, and creating multiplying churches through intentional leader development.Welcome...
2025-11-1151 minThe Unfair AdvantageEP 043 | Matt Brown on Staffing & Resiliency in Church PlantingIn this episode of The Unfair Advantage, host David Hibiske sits down with Pastor Matt Brown, founder of Sandals Church, to reflect on nearly 30 years of church planting. Matt shares his journey from humble beginnings with no funding or network to leading a multi-campus church with over 14 locations. With candor and humility, he unpacks lessons in resiliency, staffing, leadership clarity, and trusting God through setbacks and breakthroughs. His story highlights both the painful missteps and the pivotal decisions that shaped Sandals Church into what it is today, offering wisdom and encouragement for pastors and church planters navigating their own...
2025-10-1442 minThe Unfair AdvantageEP 042 | Brian Beauford on Finding & Leading Great #2 LeadersIn this episode of The Unfair Advantage, host David Hibiske sits down with Brian Beauford, Executive Pastor of Grace Church in Boston, to explore the unique dynamics of second-chair leadership in church planting. Brian shares his journey from stepping into church planting as a college student to helping launch and grow Grace Church into a thriving multi-campus ministry. He unpacks lessons on finding the right second-chair leader, building trust with your senior pastor, and why understanding personality wiring through tools like Predictive Index can be a game-changer for leadership teams. Whether you’re a planter or a second-chair leader, Br...
2025-09-1645 minThe Unfair AdvantageEP 041 | Chris Delfs on Making the Hard Calls in Church PlantingIn this episode of the Unfair Advantage podcast, David Hibiske sits down with church planter and cohort coach Chris Delfs. Chris reflects on over 20 years of ministry, from launching LifePointe Church in Elk Grove, California, to navigating the highs, lows, and pivotal leadership decisions that shaped his journey. He shares hard-earned wisdom on building healthy teams, raising funds strategically, making courageous staffing decisions, and staying authentic as a leader. This episode is packed with practical encouragement and insight for planters and leaders ready to go further, faster.Welcome to Episode 041 of The Unfair Advantage...
2025-08-1951 minThe Unfair AdvantageEP 040 | Sean Morgan on Leading Together: A Healthy Board in ActionIn this second episode of a two-part series, David Hibiske sits down again with Sean Morgan to dive deeper into the vital role of church boards. They explore what it looks like for boards to truly support and protect their lead pastor, care for their pastor’s family, navigate compensation wisely, and foster unity even in challenging conversations. Sean offers practical insights for lay leaders and church planters on building healthy governance structures that advance the mission rather than slow it down. Whether you're a new board member, a seasoned elder, or a pastor wanting to strengthen your board re...
2025-07-2251 minThe Unfair AdvantageEP 039 | Sean Morgan on Building a Healthy Board from Day OneIn Part 1 of this two-part series, host David Hibiske is joined by Sean Morgan to discuss one of the most critical—and often overlooked—foundations of church planting: board governance. With decades of experience in church leadership and transitions, Sean unpacks why getting your board structure right from the start matters deeply for your mission and longevity as a planter. They explore the legal, spiritual, and practical aspects of governance, how to identify the right board members, and what Scripture does—and doesn’t—say about board roles. Whether you're in pre-launch or year five, this episode offers key wisdom to...
2025-06-2450 minThe Unfair AdvantageEP 038 | Chris Stephens on Life, Leadership, and Vision that LastsIn this episode of The Unfair Advantage, Chris Stephens shares his remarkable journey from a troubled past to leading one of the largest churches in Tennessee. Growing up in poverty, struggling with addiction, and facing abuse, Chris found hope and purpose in Christ at 22. His story is one of radical transformation, unwavering vision, and relentless faith. Chris discusses the early challenges of planting a church, the importance of vision in leadership, and the critical role of spiritual formation in sustaining ministry. He also shares insights on overcoming fear, building effective teams, and remaining focused on God's calling amid challenges...
2025-05-2741 minThe Unfair AdvantageEP 037 | Brandon Bowers on Missional Conviction, Clarity & CultureIn this episode of The Unfair Advantage, Brandon Bowers, Lead Pastor and planter of Awaken Church in Charleston, South Carolina, joins David Hibiske to share his 12-year journey of church planting—from parachuting in with a team of nine to launching two campuses and navigating growing pains. Brandon unpacks the highs, lows, and leadership lessons he's learned along the way, including the importance of missional clarity, team alignment, and staying rooted in conviction. Whether you're just starting out or years into your plant, Brandon’s insights will both challenge and encourage you to lead with purpose and perseverance.
2025-04-2944 minThe Unfair AdvantageEP 036 | Heiden Ratner on Leading Your Church to be a Place You LoveIn this episode of the Unfair Advantage, we’re hearing from Heiden Ratner—former Division I basketball player turned church planter in Las Vegas, Nevada. Heiden shares his powerful journey from chasing purpose on the basketball court to finding deeper fulfillment through faith in Jesus. With honesty and wisdom, he unpacks what it means to lead a church you actually like, the importance of team alignment over talent, and how clarity in leadership creates healthy culture. Whether you’re planting a church or leading a ministry team, this conversation is packed with encouragement, practical tools, and reminders that God is abl...
2025-04-0138 minThe Unfair AdvantageEP 035 | Ray Hudson on Pivots in Planting, Building Your Staff, and Engaging Your CityIn this episode of The Unfair Advantage, host David Hibiske sits down with church planter Raymond Hudson to discuss his journey of planting a church in Berkeley, California—one of the most challenging places to reach with the gospel. Raymond shares how his early experiences in church planting shaped his calling, the challenges of launching during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the importance of loving and serving a city rather than trying to "fix" it. He also offers key insights on leadership development, team building, and financial sustainability for church planters. His story is a powerful testament to faith, adaptability, an...
2025-03-0449 min
Saddleback Church Weekend MessagesThe Return | A Conversation with Andy Wood & David HibiskeLeading up to The Return Gathering at Saddleback Church, Pastor Andy invites various guests to join him for a conversation as we prepare for where God is leading our church next. Each conversation is designed to grow our understanding of what it means to wholeheartedly return back to God and catch the biblical vision of a sacred assembly. This episode is Pastor Andy’s conversation with David Hibiske. To register for The Return Gathering, visit saddleback.com/thereturn.
2025-02-1731 minThe Unfair AdvantageEP 034 | Sean Sears on Planter Pitfalls to Avoid for the Sake of Your Family and ChurchIn this episode of The Unfair Advantage Podcast, host David Hibiske welcomes back Sean Sears, a seasoned church planter from New England. Sean shares his powerful journey of balancing ministry with family life, including the lessons he learned after nearly losing his marriage during the early years of church planting. He offers profound insights into finding identity in Christ rather than ministry success, setting boundaries to prioritize family, and building healthy leadership that reflects God’s love. This honest and vulnerable conversation is packed with wisdom for planters navigating the challenges of ministry, family, and personal growth.
2025-02-0442 minThe Unfair AdvantageEP 033 | 3 Societal and Church Conversations to be Aware of in 2025In this episode of The Unfair Advantage, David Hibiske dives into three critical societal and church leadership conversations shaping the landscape in 2025. He unpacks the "Negative World Concept," the breakdown of the home and family, and the return to prayer and revival stirrings. This episode is a must-listen for church planters and leaders eager to navigate current challenges and seize opportunities for impactful ministry.Welcome to Episode 033 of The Unfair Advantage Podcast with Mike Hickerson and David Hibiske.EPISODE LINKSLife in the Negative World, by Aaron...
2025-01-0729 minThe Unfair AdvantageEP 030 | Maximizing Your Preaching and Church Calendar for MomentumIn this episode, we explore the power of intentional church calendar planning to build momentum and maximize impact in your ministry. Your church calendar can be one of your greatest assets, but too often, we miss out on growth opportunities by failing to plan ahead or aligning our teams with our strategy.Welcome to Episode 030 of The Unfair Advantage Podcast with Mike Hickerson and David Hibiske.EPISODE LINKSUA28 - Align Your Ministry Plan to Your VisionUA23 - Setting the Tone for a Great Weekend...
2024-10-1531 minThe Unfair AdvantageEP 029 | Lenny Barber on Prioritizing Spiritual Health and Multi-Cultural MinistryDon’t underestimate the power of a two-year-old church. Today’s conversation with Lenny Barber, Pastor and planter of The House Church in Ferguson, MO, reminds us of the importance of pastors’ spiritual health and purity of motives in planting. Discover how Pastor Lenny continues to build up a church with multicultural intentionality to welcome people into a space that reflects the diversity of their city.Welcome to Episode 029 of The Unfair Advantage Podcast with Mike Hickerson and David Hibiske.EPISODE LINKS@Lenny.BarberD...
2024-09-1748 minThe Unfair AdvantageEP 028 | You've Planted, Now What? How to Bring Alignment to Your Church“We’re not after control…we’re after a common goal.” In today’s episode, David Hibiske guides us through eight steps of aligning your ministry after you’ve launched. It’s one thing to be busy, and it can be an entirely different thing to be effective. We’re reminded in today’s episode that we’re not after busyness, but we’re after traction in our mission. Listen in for a ton of practical questions to ask each step of the way and helpful tools to get your ministry in alignment after you’ve launched.Welcome to Episode 028 of...
2024-08-2036 minThe Unfair AdvantageEP 027 | The Importance of Coaching & Mentorship in Church Planting“If you feel like you have to choose, choose your family.” Coaching plays a crucial role in the success of your leadership. Today, we’re hearing from Ben Pilgreen and Ernest Smith as they discuss the ways coaching impacted more than the health of their churches…it has contributed to the health of their families. Welcome to Episode 027 of The Unfair Advantage Podcast with Mike Hickerson and David Hibiske.EPISODE LINKSDo ministry together! Three gatherings, nine planters, one cohesive journey. Check out the Ascent Leader Church Planter C...
2024-07-2342 minThe Unfair AdvantageEP 026 | Tim Celek's Insights on Reviving the Call & Prioritizing Evangelism in Today's World“Assignments change, but your calling doesn’t.” Meet Tim Celek, Senior Director of Post-Launch Services at Stadia. In today’s episode, guest host, Sean Morgan, leads a conversation with Tim to help us understand the nuances of calling and evangelism in the church today. You’ll hear what Tim has noticed trending in church planters within the last five years, and how to instill an evangelism mindset in the core of your church.Welcome to Episode 026 of The Unfair Advantage Podcast with Mike Hickerson and David Hibiske.EPISODE LINKShttps...
2024-06-2548 minThe Unfair AdvantageEP 025 | Setting the Tone for a Great Weekend ExperienceToday, we're discussing the crucial role of weekend services for church planters, emphasizing their importance for spiritual growth, welcoming first-time guests, and creating momentum. David outlines four key ways to enhance weekend experiences: setting the tone spiritually through personal devotion and prayer, culturally by reinforcing vision and excellence, strategically for guest outreach by lowering anxiety and ensuring clarity, and aligning all teams and ministries to work cohesively. Hibiske encourages church planters to prioritize spiritual readiness, inspect and improve cultural standards, focus on guest experiences, and foster team alignment to drive growth and engagement in their churches.
2024-05-2831 minThe Unfair AdvantageEP 024 | Unveiling the 7 Game-Changing Shifts in the First 2 YearsWhether you're planting a church or leading one, these seven shifts will be pivotal in the first two years of development. They set the tone for a community's growth and impact. Remember, it's about a long obedience in the same direction. Take it step by step, and give yourself and your team the grace to grow.Welcome to Episode 024 of The Unfair Advantage Podcast with Mike Hickerson and David Hibiske. EPISODE LINKSDo ministry together! Three gatherings, nine planters, one cohesive journey. Check out the Ascent Leader C...
2024-04-3036 minThe Unfair AdvantageEP 023 | 5 Bold Convictions on Prayer for Every Church PlanterABOUT THE EPISODEPrayer—it's not just some spiritual tool you whip out when you need it. Today, Mike Hickerson and David Hibiske talk about how skipping prayer might actually be holding you back more than you think. Starting with pastors’ own private prayer time, Mike and David break down how investing your time and even some cash into prayer can transform the heart of your church. Listen in for practical tips on bringing prayer into your community, making it accessible and meaningful for everyone.Welcome to Episode 023 of The Unfair Advantage Podc...
2024-04-0233 minThe Unfair AdvantageEP 020 | Parenting and PlantingABOUT THE EPISODE“We overestimate how much energy we need to make an awesome church, and we underestimate how important it is to have a healthy marriage.” Today, we’re joined by hosts Mike Hickerson and David Hibiske in a church-planting conversation centered around the family side of a pastor. Often, in the hustle of church planting, pastors can fall into the trap of prioritizing work over family. This only ends up negatively affecting both the church and your family! Listen in for key takeaways and best practices to maintain strength in your family as you...
2024-01-0939 minThe Unfair AdvantageEP 018 | David Hibiske on the Importance of Commitment and Capacity-Building in Church Planting“There’s something about commitment that brings focus that unlocks growth.” Meet David Hibiske, Pastor of Strategic Ministry Initiatives at Saddleback Church. Today’s encouragement to church planters is to be ridiculously faithful with what God has given you. Whether you are planting a church, or in a season of growth and waiting, there is encouragement for you in today’s episode. David shares two big leaps in leadership that make all the difference in your capacity to allow for church growth.Welcome to Episode 018 of The Unfair Advantage Podcast with Mike Hickerson and Andy Wood...
2023-11-2842 min
Echo.ChurchPersevering When You Don't Think You're Good Enough | GRiT (Pt. 3) | David HibiskeWith your role as a student, parent, spouse or a professional - Do you ever feel like you are not good enough? Then, may be you don’t know enough. Because we serve a God who knows YOU ARE CAPABLE. The solution to your question is right here. You just have to hold on and listen to Him. Come, join us today as we continue our series filled with strength “GRiT”. Together, let us unpack what God wants to remind us about our abilities. Check-in to let us support you in your journey. If you’re...
2023-04-0640 min
Echo Leadership Podcast with Andy WoodThe Zone of the Unknown, Part 2Sometimes the future is foggy. We can’t see what lies ahead, so we become fearful and confused about what to do next. In this month’s episode, Andy Wood and David Hibiske conclude a two-part conversation on what we can do in the midst of ambiguity in order to stay focused and continue growing as leaders.
2022-08-0134 min
Echo Leadership Podcast with Andy WoodThe Zone of the Unknown, Part 1Sometimes the future is foggy. We can’t see what lies ahead, so we become fearful and confused about what to do next. In this month’s episode, Andy Wood and David Hibiske begin a two-part conversation on what we can do in the midst of ambiguity in order to stay focused and continue growing as leaders.
2022-07-1138 min
Echo.ChurchPutting Money In Its Place | UN$HACKLED (Pt. 3) | David HibiskeMost of us work for money to provide for ourselves and our families, to buy the things we need and some of the things we want. It can be easy to start feeling trapped as day in and day out, we let our desires be our only purpose for earning. But what if there was a bigger reason behind our money? Join us today to learn how to experience a greater sense of freedom and purpose as we wrap up our Un$hackled series with a timely message. Check-in to let us know how we can b...
2022-06-2138 min
Echo Leadership Podcast with Andy WoodHow to Stay Hungry and Humble, Part 2Oftentimes, the greatest enemy of future progress is past success. We can get so caught up in our accomplishments that we lose focus on continually getting better as leaders. In this month’s episode, Andy Wood and David Hibiske conclude a two-part conversation on how to stay hungry and humble so that we don’t stand in the way of the great things in front of us.ECHO LEADERSHIP CONFERENCEJoin us on Thursday, May 19, in San Jose, California, for a one-day intensive packed with energy, fun, and practical leadership tools. Designed for chur...
2022-05-0528 min
Echo Leadership Podcast with Andy WoodHow to Stay Hungry and Humble, Part 1Oftentimes, the greatest enemy of future progress is past success. We can get so caught up in our accomplishments that we lose focus on continually getting better as leaders. In this month’s episode, Andy Wood and David Hibiske begin a two-part conversation on how to stay hungry and humble so that we don’t stand in the way of the great things in front of us.ECHO LEADERSHIP CONFERENCEJoin us on Thursday, May 19, in San Jose, California, for a one-day intensive packed with energy, fun, and practical leadership tools. Designed for chur...
2022-04-2830 min
Echo.ChurchAnxious No More | All The Feels (Pt. 4) | David HibiskeAs anxiety continues to be more common, it can often feel overwhelming and frustrating. For many of us, we may not even realize we’re feeling stressed.How do we get out of feeling trapped in cycles of worry?Join us today as we wrap up our All The Feels series with a powerful message on keys to overcoming anxiety and experiencing peace instead. Check-in to let us know how we can be praying for you. If you’re new here, you’ll also get a FREE digital gift card! https://echo.church/checkin...
2022-03-2245 min
Echo Leadership Podcast with Andy Wood5 Reasons to Keep Showing UpDuring a year of unprecedented change and uncertainty, be honest: how many times have you wanted to throw in the towel? There’s been so much out of our control, but we can still fight and stay in the game. In this month’s episode, learn five reasons why you can and should keep showing up![CLOSED] COACHING GIVEAWAY FOR NEW EMAIL SUBSCRIBERSThe first FIVE people who subscribe to the Echo Leadership Podcast email list for the first time will win a free 30-minute coaching session with either Andy Wood or David Hibi...
2020-12-0140 min
Echo.ChurchYes, You Can Change A Life | Compassion Sunday | David HibiskeYes, You Can Change A Life | Compassion Sunday | David Hibiske by
2020-09-0729 min
Echo.ChurchMoving in Hope | Hope Project | David HibiskeMoving in Hope | Hope Project | David Hibiske by
2020-06-2940 min
Echo.ChurchTemptation of Authority | Anonymous | David HibiskeTemptation of Authority | Anonymous | David Hibiske by
2019-11-1139 min
Echo.ChurchHabits | Relationship Refresh | David HibiskeHabits | Relationship Refresh | David Hibiske by
2019-09-0933 min
Echo.ChurchReConnection | Summer Vibes | David HibiskeReConnection | Summer Vibes | David Hibiske by
2019-07-0222 min
Echo.ChurchLie #3: I Can't Slow Down | Escape Room | David HibiskeLie #3: I Can't Slow Down | Escape Room | David Hibiske by
2019-03-2143 min
Echo.ChurchRaised To Life II | Baptism Weekend | David HibiskeRaised To Life II | Baptism Weekend | David Hibiske by
2018-11-0510 min
Echo.ChurchTech Wise Family Focus On Character David HibiskeTech Wise Family Focus On Character David Hibiske by
2018-09-2439 min
Echo.ChurchYes! | The Cost of the Wrong No | David Hibiske | January 14, 2018Yes! | The Cost of the Wrong No | David Hibiske | January 14, 2018 by
2018-01-1540 min
Echo.ChurchValues in an Unholy Culture | David Hibiske | DifferentValues in an Unholy Culture | David Hibiske | Different by
2017-10-3035 min
Echo.ChurchParty Life | Joy In Anticipation | David Hibiske | August 6th, 2017Party Life | Joy In Anticipation | David Hibiske | August 6th, 2017 by
2017-08-0742 min
Echo.ChurchFather's Day - David Hibiske - June 18, 2017Father's Day - David Hibiske - June 18, 2017 by
2017-06-1943 min
Echo.ChurchI Choose - Action Over Talk - David Hibiske - February 26 2017I Choose - Action Over Talk - David Hibiske - February 26 2017 by
2017-03-3043 min
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Echo.ChurchHoly Spirit Relationship - David Hibiske - Sep 4 2016Holy Spirit Relationship - David Hibiske - Sep 4 2016 by
2017-03-3045 min
Echo.ChurchAt The Movies - David Hibiske - July 17 2016At The Movies - David Hibiske - July 17 2016 by
2017-03-3041 min
Echo.ChurchPlanning And Trusting - David Hibiske -May 29 2016Planning And Trusting - David Hibiske -May 29 2016 by
2017-03-3038 min
Echo.ChurchFinding Your Way Back TO God | David Hibiske | 4.17.16Finding Your Way Back TO God | David Hibiske | 4.17.16 by
2016-05-1038 min
2016-03-0839 min
2015-12-2138 min
Echo.ChurchWhatever It Takes | David Hibiske | 09.7.15Whatever It Takes | David Hibiske | 09.7.15 by
2015-09-1444 min
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2015-06-2242 min
Echo.ChurchBlood Sweat Tears | David Hibiske | 3.15.15Blood Sweat Tears | David Hibiske | 3.15.15 by
2015-03-1643 min
2014-10-2031 min
2014-06-0937 min
Echo.ChurchThe Art Of Neighboring 2 | David Hibiske | 04.06.14David Hibiske, South Bay Church, The Art of Neighboring
2014-04-0631 min
2014-02-0336 min
2013-12-1635 min
Echo.ChurchQuestions Religion | Filipe Santos and David Hibiske | 11.10.13Questions Religion | Filipe Santos and David Hibiske | 11.10.13 by
2013-11-1138 min
Echo.ChurchExtend Ridiculous Grace And Forgiveness | David Hibiske | 10.6.13Extend Ridiculous Grace And Forgiveness | David Hibiske | 10.6.13 by
2013-10-0741 min
Echo.ChurchWhat Did Jesus Accomplish On the Cross? | David Hibiske | 4/7/13What Did Jesus Accomplish On the Cross? | David Hibiske | 4/7/13 by
2013-04-0934 min
Echo.ChurchOverwhelmed: Living By Priorities | David Hibiske | 2/3/13Overwhelmed: Living By Priorities | David Hibiske | 2/3/13 by
2013-03-0444 min
Echo.ChurchLosing My Religion: The Moonwalk Effect | David Hibiske | 11/25/12When we think of church or Christians we often think of hypocrisy, judgment and the feeling of guilt. Join us as we say good-bye to the baggage of religion and discover freedom through authentic relationship with God and others.
2012-11-2635 min
Echo.ChurchHeroes | Heroic Passion | David Hibiske | 8/5/12Heroes | Heroic Passion | David Hibiske | 8/5/12 by
2012-08-0932 min
2012-07-0233 min
Echo.ChurchHappiness is. David Hibiske | Matthew 5:9 | 3/25/12Our relentless pursuit of life, liberty, and happiness often leaves us empy and stressed out. In "Happiness is..." we discover how to redirect our pursuits to enter the life of true fulfillment God desires for each of us.
2012-05-2040 min