How often do you pause in the middle of your normal Tuesday and wonder - is God speaking to me right now? Can I just say, I get it. The idea of hearing God in daily life can feel big and mysterious, especially when we’re focused on deepening relationship with God beyond routine. But what if it’s simpler than we think, especially when we learn about obedience when it feels uncomfortable? What if one small yes, one tiny act of obedience, is all it takes to start seeing God’s voice show up in the ordinary?
Let me tell you, you don’t have to wait for a burning bush moment. The work God does in our everyday is often quieter, but no less holy. And I believe hearing God in daily life is found in unexpected places - in the grocery store, in the car line, or when you’re just minding your own business on a walk. He doesn’t hide. He meets us right here.
What Does Hearing God in Daily Life Look Like?
A lot of us wait for something "big" or unmistakable, especially when God feels silent in everyday life. But honestly, hearing God in daily life often feels like a gentle nudge. It’s that thought you can’t shake off - call this person, help with that chore, stop for one moment and really listen. I remember in our recent podcast episode, we discussed how God speaks in everyday moments and it barely even feels supernatural. Picking up trash in a parking lot. Smiling at a neighbor you don’t know well can be one of the simplest ways of sharing faith in everyday moments. Being the one who says yes when the need seems too small or awkward for anyone else to care.
Here’s the thing, friend. God cares about the small acts of encouragement. When He nudges your heart, even with something simple, it matters. Obedience isn’t about making a splash. It’s about making space for God to work in your life - and maybe, in someone else’s too.
Why Small Acts of Obedience Matter So Much
Have you ever second-guessed whether that little thought was truly God, especially during seasons of spiritual rebuilding after setbacks? You’re not alone. We all wonder - is this God or just my own mind? Most of the time, it’s not about getting every decision perfect, but about trusting God through waiting and learning to listen. Hearing God in daily life is about trust. He’s teaching you to lean in, to follow, to listen, and to trust that even your stumbling steps are precious to Him.
I remember hoping God would ask something more impressive from me, a mindset tied closely to healing from spiritual perfectionism. Like, shouldn’t obedience look “spiritual”? But so many times, God invites us into small acts that seem unremarkable - except, hearts change. Community shifts. Kindness grows. My own story has shown me that when I said yes to small, hidden things, God used those moments to build trust, shape character, and bless others in ways I never saw coming. (And sometimes, honestly, I had no idea it mattered to anyone - until years later!)
Hearing God in daily life often starts right where you are
- Picking up something forgotten
- Making a phone call you don’t want to make
- Saying a prayer for someone on your heart
- Being present and quiet, not rushing ahead, is one of the most overlooked spiritual self care habits we can practice.
These aren’t glamorous things. But every one is a chance to say, "Yes Lord, I trust You." And trust is the foundation for hearing God in daily life.
How Do We Get Better at Hearing God in Daily Life?
Let’s be real - hearing God in daily life isn’t always easy. Sometimes it’s a whisper. Sometimes it feels far away. But He hasn’t moved. I’ve learned that the closer I am to His Word, the clearer His voice becomes. And when I fill my mind with Scripture and lean into quiet time, His nudges are gentle but unmistakable.
One of my favorite anchors is Psalm 143:8 (CSB): "Let me experience Your faithful love in the morning, for I trust in You. Reveal to me the way I should go because I appeal to You." David’s prayer reminds me: God wants to be known. He wants to guide us. He is faithful - and He shows up right where we are.
What helps tune your heart to God’s voice?
- Spending time in the Word, even just a little at a time
- Telling God exactly what’s on your mind (even when it’s messy)
- Creating space to rest, not just checking off a to-do list
- Letting go of perfection - it’s about relationship, not performance
Sometimes hearing God in daily life starts by making space. Rest is countercultural, but it opens up our hearts. When I find myself too busy or distracted, I try to slow down. Maybe you need to “spring clean” the mental clutter. Just like you clean out a closet, clear space in your schedule or your mind. Trust me, making space is never wasted.
What If I Miss It or Get It Wrong?
Friend, can I take the pressure off? God is so much more gracious than we imagine. One of the best pieces of advice I’ve ever heard was this: If you step out in obedience with a willing heart, God can use it for good, even if it’s not perfect. Hearing God in daily life isn’t about never messing up. He treasures your willingness and soft heart.
If you’re not sure if it’s His voice, that’s okay. Keep stepping forward. Stay rooted in Scripture so you know His character. Let your yes be “yes,” even in the small things. God will guide and correct along the way. And He’ll use even your imperfect steps to draw you (and others) closer to Him.
Making Space for God Today
Let’s get practical - if you want to grow in hearing God in daily life, here are a few things I do. None of these require a theology degree or hours of free time you don’t have. They’re simple and doable, right here and now.
- Start your day with a quick prayer and a couple verses (it doesn’t have to be long or fancy)
- Ask God to open your eyes for opportunities to serve - big or small
- Write down any nudges or impressions you get (yes, even if they seem random or silly)
- Make one small act of obedience your goal today
Hearing God in daily life is a habit, not just a holy moment. When you say yes, even in the smallest thing, you make space for God’s presence. And you never know how He might use your yes to shift your life, your family, or someone nearby in ways you can’t imagine.
Here’s What I’d Love for You to Remember
- God delights in your small steps of obedience
- Your everyday moments matter to Him
- When you create space, He fills it with His presence
- Every act of faith becomes a seed for future growth - in you and in others
- Hearing God in daily life is possible for everyone who wants to know Him more
And can I invite you to go a step deeper? Listen to this week’s podcast episode, where we share real stories about hearing God in daily life and how saying yes to small, everyday nudges changed everything. If you’ve ever wondered if God cares about the little things, this episode will encourage you to say yes with boldness and joy.
You’re not alone in this. We’re learning together. Don’t forget to catch more faith-filled encouragement on the podcast, or explore more stories about following God’s purpose on the blog. Let’s walk in faith, one small yes at a time.
