Intimacy With God

I've had a lot to say the last two days, so I'm going to take a breath :) and share this space. I'd like to introduce you to my friend Tara Furman. Tara is one of those inspiring people that I'd like to clone and loan to each of you so that you could could share her too, but this interview will have to do. (Don't miss the chance to register for the giveaway at the end!)


Tara has self-published a prayer journal and has just released a new study on having rich quiet times with God. Here's what she had to say about her experience:


1. What was your time like with God before you started this journey? What was missing?

For years, my time with God was a rote, religious activity. It was something that I checked off my list of things to do each day. I sat down – I read – I prayed for the people I was supposed to pray for, and I was off! You could have asked me at lunch time what my devotion was about and I wouldn’t have had a clue.

2. How did you make a change?

In 2005 (I’ll never forget this), I found myself drawn to “My Heart’s Cry”, by Anne Graham Lotz. I reluctantly brought the book into my quiet time and began reading only a page or two a day. [I say reluctantly b/c I used to be very legalistic about books in my quiet time.] However, during my quiet time, it was as if the Scriptures were jumping off the page into my heart – speaking directly to my circumstances. This was not a coincidence. I was encountering the Living God! My life and quiet time have not been the same since!

3. Describe your quiet time basket. (I love this, friends! It’s an idea that has helped me tremendously!!)

Beside my comfy quiet time chair, I have a basket with all the essentials: my Bible, Prayer Journal, Devotional books, Bible study materials, pens, highlighters, tissue, Note cards, a hymnal and a lot of other fun stuff. This keeps me from getting up and becoming distracted by all the other “things” that clamor for my attention: the dryer full of clothes or the dishwasher that needs to be emptied, the freezer screaming, “what are we having for dinner tonight?”, etc…! Also, keeping all my supplies in a basket prevents my spot from becoming cluttered and an eyesore.

4. How would you describe your times with God now?

As of today, and I pray it never ends, but I would describe my time with Jesus as vibrant! Most mornings, I can’t wait to hear what He has to say - especially during times of difficulty which I am experiencing now. He is my Lifeline. Encountering Him each day – not just going through the motions has become a vital necessity.

5. Would you tell us one story about how God spoke to you recently?

Well, I just shared that I am in the midst of a very trying time. As women, our natural inclination is to want to talk about our trials with other women. However, Jesus reminded me again today, that “quietness and trust will be my strength.” (Isaiah 30:15) In other words He said to me, “Tara, continue to keep your mouth shut and trust Me. Trust Me when you can’t see Me working. Trust Me to work out every detail on your behalf.”
God is so real and personal! He wants to shower each of us with the reality of His Presence every day! Only God can speak to the core of our being - replacing the anxiousness in our hearts with peace; our despair for hope and our insecurities for security.


Thanks for sharing, Tara! Find out more about Tara's ministry on her website.


She has generously donated one of her journals, Intimacy with God, for a giveaway. This is my first, so help me out!!


If you'd like to be included, leave a comment telling how you've built intimacy with God in your quiet time OR why you desperately need this prayer journal to begin the journey. Don't forget to include your email address. I'll announce a winner on Friday, so check back in!