How to Hear God When You Feel Burnt Out

lindsay Metternich
Jul 15
3 min read

Because even in the silence, He’s still near.

Burnout is more than just feeling tired—it’s a deep soul-weariness. A kind of emptiness that stretches into your body, your thoughts, your spirit.You may feel like you're running on fumes, disconnected, overwhelmed, and maybe even... spiritually distant.

You may wonder: Where is God in all of this?And if you're really honest: Why can't I hear Him right now?

The good news? You’re not alone. And He hasn’t gone anywhere.

First: Let Go of the Pressure to “Do More” Spiritually

When we feel burnt out, we often assume it’s because we haven’t prayed enough, read enough, done enough. But God isn’t measuring your performance—He’s always after your heart.

You don’t need fancy words or perfectly structured devotions to reach Him.You just need to come. Weary. Worn out. Honest.

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”— Matthew 11:28

1. Trade Noise for Stillness (Even for 5 Minutes)

Burnout thrives in chaos. God often speaks in stillness.

You don’t need an hour-long quiet time. You need a moment of pause. Sit on your porch. Close your eyes. Take a walk without your phone. Let your breath slow.

Then whisper, “God, I’m listening.”You might not hear words—but you may feel peace. Clarity. Presence.

2. Speak Honestly—Even If It Sounds Messy

God doesn’t need perfect prayers. He wants real ones.Tell Him:

“I’m exhausted.”
“I don’t know how to hear You.”
“I feel far away.”
“Help me find You again.”

David did this all through the Psalms. And God called him a man after His heart.

3. Remember: God Is Still Speaking Through His Word (Even If You Feel Numb)

If Scripture feels dry right now, don’t force a whole chapter. Instead, return to just one verse. One promise. One breath of truth.

Here are a few places to start:

Psalm 23: “He restores my soul.”
Isaiah 40:29: “He gives strength to the weary.”
2 Corinthians 12:9: “My grace is sufficient for you.”

Let them be a whisper in the dark, not a homework assignment.

4. Notice the Gentle Ways God Speaks in Your Life

Burnout can make us believe we’re abandoned. But often, God is showing up in softer ways:

A sunrise that made you pause
A song that felt like it was written just for you
A friend who texted at the right moment
A verse that found you instead of the other way around

These are not coincidences. They are reminders: I see you. I’m here.

5. Rest as Worship

Sometimes, hearing God starts with stopping. Not pushing harder.Laying down your burdens can be one of the most sacred things you do.

Rest isn’t lazy. It’s a declaration that you are not God—and you trust the One who is.

“In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength.”— Isaiah 30:15

6. Let Others Carry You for a While

When you can’t pray, let someone pray for you.When you can’t read Scripture, let worship music or sermons carry it to you.When your faith feels weak, lean into the community of believers who can hold your arms up like Aaron and Hur did for Moses.

You’re not meant to walk through burnout alone.