Have you ever started something you weren’t prepared for? A few years ago, I tried to run a marathon without training. My family joked it was all just a mental challenge. I believed them, until mile three. That run reminded me a lot of my spiritual life: trying to navigate life without preparing to hear from God. Just like with that marathon, we need intentional steps to tune in to his voice during life’s chaos.

Hearing from God isn’t just for pastors or the “super spiritual.” It’s for all of us. But in a world full of distractions, his voice can feel like a whisper in a storm. Whether it’s busyness, social media noise, or internal anxiety, God’s guidance often gets drowned out. The good news? The Bible gives us a practical path to follow. With preparation, consistency, and community, you can hear from God clearly and confidently—even in the middle of the noise.

1. Read the Bible as God’s Voice

The Bible isn’t just a book. It’s a living message from God. Spanning over 1,500 years and written by 40+ authors, its message centers on Jesus. When we read it, we’re not just gaining knowledge; we’re listening for truth that transforms. Make a habit of reading Scripture with expectation. The YouVersion Bible app has some great Bible reading plans to get you started!

2. Lift Your Sail to Catch the Holy Spirit

Imagine the Holy Spirit as a breeze: always moving, always guiding. But like a sailboat, we have to raise our sails to catch it. Prayer, meditation, and reflection are ways we become more sensitive to God’s nudges. If you’re unsure how to start, try “listening prayers.” Ask a question, then sit in stillness and wait for the whisper.

3. Apply God’s Wisdom, Not Just His Words

It’s one thing to read Scripture, it’s another to apply it. Biblical wisdom transforms when it shapes our decisions. Instead of rushing through chapters, ask, “What does this mean for my life today?” Try journaling one verse and how you’ll live it out.

4. Anchor Yourself in Community

God often speaks through people. Life Groups, Serve Teams, and even casual faith conversations can be ways the Holy Spirit confirms what you’re sensing. Don’t try to hear from God in isolation. Find a group of fellow Christians, and experience how community sharpens your ability to discern God’s voice.

5. Take Small, Consistent Steps

Spiritual growth isn’t a sprint—it’s a series of intentional steps. A daily verse, weekly reflection, or regular quiet time adds up. Over time, those rhythms tune your heart to hear God’s voice more clearly. Start with five minutes today. Don’t aim for perfection—aim for consistency.

Put it Into Practice

Let these truths guide your everyday choices.

• Open your Bible to hear, not just to read.
• Pause during your day to listen.
• Ask for God’s wisdom in decisions big and small. His voice is closer than you think.

You just need to slow down and tune in.