Take the Next Step

Andrew Welch and his wife, McKenzie, always made it a point to attend First Baptist Dallas any time they came up from Houston to visit family. “We always said if we moved back to Dallas, we wanted to be members,” Andrew says. “The way Dr. Jeffress delivers God’s Word is digestible, applicable, and expands our understanding.” In 2014, when God opened the door for them to return to Dallas, they knew exactly where they would go to church. They joined First Dallas immediately.

Since then, Andrew has offered to serve each time there has been a need or opportunity. Andrew serves as a deacon and volunteers in a wide range of ministries, including Pastor’s Prayer Partners, the Widows Ministry, and the parking team. Even during a busy season of raising young children, working, and volunteering, Andrew believes deeply in prioritizing the local church. 

“Personally, because of the life stage we are in, you tend to be more selfish, you are in the middle of your career, you have family and kids, it all just piles up. But when you take a step back and think about all it takes to function well at church, it enables you to be more open to making it work.” Andrew continues, “Being involved and participating means you’re contributing something that helps make things better, that solves a need, creates an opportunity, and frees up others to do what they need to do.”

Even in the midst of a very full and busy life, Andrew took seriously the question we were asking ourselves as we started Mission 1:8 One Desire—What is my next step in making Jesus Christ my One Desire in life? 

For Andrew, the next step God put on his heart was starting a Discipleship Group (at First Dallas we call them ‘D-Groups’) and fostering community through Sunday School. He saw the need for it. “Relationships take time. If someone has a life event, you’re not going to be the person they call if you only talk on Sundays. But through regular fellowship, you build a strong force that can weather any storm.” 

Andrew has already seen how God has blessed this step, encouraging his faith and connecting him more deeply with others. “When you are walking with others, it’s easier to see how God moves in people’s lives. You don’t have to fear tomorrow or the future—even if you can’t see it or feel it in the moment. You can trust Him.” The discussions in their D-Group have led to a deeper level of discipleship. “It’s often refreshing to hear older, wiser people say, ‘I still sin, I’m not perfect, and I still struggle.’ That kind of honesty resonates with me. It reminds you we’re all still growing.”

Each time Andrew has responded to the Lord and taken a next step, he said he has ended up feeling refreshed rather than drained. He shared this encouragement for others, “If you’re feeling like something is missing and you don’t have the community you want, don’t wait around. Volunteer. Come to the Wednesday night Bible study. Start a D-Group. Just take the step!” 

As a church, we are committed to helping you identify and take your next step in following Jesus Christ and making Him the one desire of your life.