7 Ways God Speaks to Us: How to Hear His Voice Clearly

Jesus made it clear that He only says what He hears from His Father. If we want to speak for God, we must first hear Him. The good news is that God is constantly speaking—a speaking God who breathes out life.

A few years ago, I wanted to hear God more clearly. Someone recommended the book “Whisper” by Mark Batterson, and it changed everything for me. The book made understanding how God speaks so accessible. I underlined, starred, and took notes on nearly every page. It remains one of my top 5 favorite books.

If you’re struggling to hear God, know this: You are hearing Him—you might not recognize His voice yet.

1. Scripture
   God’s Word is the primary way He speaks. Regularly engaging with Scripture tunes your ears to His voice.
2. Desires
   “Take delight in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart.” (Psalm 37:4). God often speaks through the desires He plants in our hearts.
3. Doors
   Jesus opens impossible doors to lead us to impossible places. Pay attention to the opportunities He places before you.
4. Dreams
   God frequently speaks through dreams, whether by night or day. He is the ultimate Dream Giver.
5. People
   God often uses others to communicate His messages to us. Surround yourself with wise, godly counsel.
6. Promptings
   Discerning God’s voice often comes as a subtle prompting or a sixth sense that guides you in the right direction.
7. Pain
   Pain captures our attention like nothing else. Sometimes, God speaks through our suffering to reveal deeper truths.

Bottom Line:

God is always speaking, and by attuning your heart and mind to His ways, you can hear His voice clearly. Whether through Scripture, desires, dreams, or even pain, God is guiding you to your destiny.