The presence of God is what separates the people of God from the rest of the world. Without God dwelling among us, we are no different from anyone else.
But when God chooses to tabernacle or live within our hearts, we are suddenly elevated to a supernatural existence that makes us come out from our old lives and walk in newness of faith. It’s called sanctification.
Paul writes on this principle in Corinthians:
Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers. For what fellowship has righteousness with lawlessness? And what communion has light with darkness?
And what accord has Christ with Belial? Or what part has a believer with an unbeliever? And what agreement has the temple of God with idols? For you are the temple of the living God.
As God has said: “I will dwell in them and walk among them. I will be their God, and they shall be My people.”
Therefore, “Come out from among them and be separate,” says the Lord. “Do not touch what is unclean, and I will receive you. I will be a Father to you, and you shall be My sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty.”
(2 Cor. 6:14-18)
Notice that even though God promises to dwell among us and personally infill us, it is based upon our decision to be separated from the unclean things of this world.
God will never force His presence upon anyone; He will not intrude upon a life which does not desire His presence. But, when we allow Him to clean up our lives and we choose to separate ourselves unto Him (it’s called consecration), He promises to go with us and empower us to run the race.
Excerpt permission granted by WinePress Publishing
Benny and Wendy Perez are the Lead Pastors of ChurchLV, which they pioneered in 2003. They have been married for 25 years and have three adult children: BJ, Bella, and Benaiah.
Benny began as a Youth Pastor in Southern California and then moved to the Pacific Northwest, leading one of the nation’s greatest youth revivals. This led to an international ministry, Benny Perez Ministries, opening doors for Benny to speak and minister worldwide. Using his 35 years of ministry experience in 2024, Benny launched the Kingdom First Community, embracing abundance & challenging scarcity with a Kingdom First mindset. Benny has a remarkable ability to deliver his message with a blend of humor and power that truly inspires.
Wendy exists to empower women and love life. With over 30 years of experience as a leader, communicator, and coach, she is unique in her ability to combine her powerful communication and wisdom with an authenticity that is refreshing and relatable. In 2023, Wendy and co-founded EquipHer Forward, an organization to encourage, empower and equip Christian women leaders and entrepreneurs.
Together as a team, they have devoted their lives to pursuing God, building the local church, and bringing Jesus to the city of Las Vegas. Passionate for the presence of God, Benny and Wendy have built a church culture that reflects this passion.