Introduction
On June 7, 2014, George Strait brought his legendary Cowboy Rides Away tour to a climactic close before 104,793 roaring fans at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas—the most-attended indoor concert in North American history . Among the 40 songs performed that evening was an emotionally powerful rendition of his 2008 hit, “I Saw God Today.”
Originally released as the lead single from his Troubadour album, the song was written by Rodney Clawson, Monty Criswell, and Wade Kirby. It marked a historic moment for Strait: his forty-third No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, and at its debut at No. 19, his highest-ever entry on the chart . The track earned critical acclaim, winning CMA’s Single of the Year and earning an ACM Song of the Year nomination for its compelling portrayal of divine presence in everyday moments.
The song’s genesis stemmed from a simple phrase used by co-writer Monty Criswell after hunting trips: “I caught a glimpse of God today,” even without seeing any wildlife. The phrase evolved into a lyrical meditation on finding spiritual meaning in life’s ordinary joys—holding a new child, witnessing a sunrise, feeling profound gratitude. Strait’s warm, thoughtful delivery turns these quiet moments into a deeply moving affirmation of grace .
Performing “I Saw God Today” in the cavernous expanse of AT&T Stadium added a layer of intimacy amid massive scale. What started as a personal reflection in 2008 became, by 2014, a communal experience shared with tens of thousands of devoted fans who witnessed Strait’s heartfelt reminder of divine beauty. That night encapsulated his enduring bond with audiences—rooted in authenticity, tradition, and moments that transcend the stage.
Video
Lyrics
Just walked down the street to the coffee shop
Had to take a break
I’ve been by her side for 18 hours straight
Saw a flower growing in the middle of the sidewalk
Pushing up through the concrete
Like it was planted right there for me to see
The flashing lights
The honking horns
All seem to fade away
In the shadow of the hospital
At 5:08
I saw God today
I’ve been to church
I’ve read the book
I know He’s here
But I don’t look
Near as often as I should
Yeah, I know I should
His fingerprints are everywhere
I just look down to stop and stare
Open my eyes and then I swear
I saw God today
Saw a couple walking by
They were holding hands
And she had that glow
Yeah, I couldn’t help
But notice she was starting to show
Stood there for a minute
Taking in the sky
Lost in that sunset
A splash of amber melting into shades of red
I’ve been to church
I’ve read the book
I know He’s here
But I don’t look
Near as often as I should
Yeah, I know I should
His fingerprints are everywhere
I just look down and stop and stare
Open my eyes and then I swear
I saw God today
Got my face pressed up against the nursery glass
She’s sleeping like a rock
My name on her wrist
Wearing tiny pink socks
She’s got my nose
She’s got her mama’s eyes
My brand new baby girl
She’s a miracle
I saw God today