If you are a Christian, then you know that one of the best ways to show your love and gratitude to God is by singing worship songs and praises. The Bible commands us to make a joyful noise unto the Lord, and Christians have been following this commandment for centuries by singing worship and praise songs. If you want to see God move powerfully in your life, then consider adding some praise songs to your playlist. Here we provide a list of the top Christian songs that you will want to check out!
What are good worship songs and why should Christians sing them?
Worship songs are a type of Christian music specifically written to praise and worship God. Good Christians sing worship songs to express their love and gratitude for God, and to offer up praise for His many blessings.
Worship songs often have positive, uplifting lyrics that emphasize God’s goodness, mercy, and love. Singing good worship songs is a way for Christians to come together and strengthen their faith. It is also a way to share the Good News of Jesus Christ with others.
When Christians sing worship songs, they are reminded of God’s goodness and His unending love for them. This can be a powerful source of encouragement, especially during difficult times. Worship songs provide Christians with a way to express their faith and connect with God on a deeper level.
Below is a list of 18 top good Christian praise and worship songs to get you started, either at home, in your car or in church.
1 – River – Leon Bridges
We all need reminding about the gifts we’ve been given. Sometimes, we are so caught up in our own lives that we forget what’s really important. That’s why it’s important to have things in our lives that remind us of what’s truly important.
For Christians, one of the best ways to be reminded about Jesus and his gift of redemption is to listen to music. And there is no better song for this purpose than “River” by Leon Bridges. Released in 2015, “River” is a beautiful and moving song that tells the story of Jesus’ sacrifice for our sins. With its simple and direct lyrics, stirring melodies, and powerful vocals, “River” is a song that will stay with you long after you’ve heard it. So if you need a reminder about the importance of Jesus’ gift of redemption, then take a listen to “River.” You won’t be disappointed.
2 – Big House – Audio Adrenaline
Audio Adrenaline’s song “Big House” was released in 1993 as part of their album Don’t Censor Me. The song was an instant hit, skyrocketing to the top of the charts and cementing the band’s place as one of the most popular Christian rock groups of the decade.
“Big House” won Song of the Decade from CCM Magazine, cementing its place as a timeless classic. The song is an uptempo rock anthem with a positive message about living life to the fullest and embracing God’s love. The lyrics are inspiring and uplifting, and the song’s catchy melody is sure to get stuck in your head. Whether you’re a fan of Audio Adrenaline or simply enjoy good Christian rock music, “Big House” is a song that you’ll want to add to your collection.
3 – Victory In Jesus – E. M. Bartlett
E.M. Bartlett was an inspiring teacher with a gift for connecting with his students. However, his teaching career was cut short when he suffered a debilitating stroke. Although he was unable to speak or walk, Bartlett continued to write songs and share his faith.
One of his most famous songs, Victory in Jesus, was written during this difficult time. Despite his physical limitations, Bartlett’s faith never wavered. He passed away two years after the stroke, but his songs continue to inspire others. Victory in Jesus is a reminder that God is always with us, even in our darkest moments.
4 – Reckless Love – Cory Asbury
Christian music has seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years, and no song embodies this trend better than Reckless Love by Cory Asbury. Released in 2017, the song quickly rose to the top of the charts, becoming the biggest Christian hit of 2018 according to Billboard.
Its simple yet powerful message of God’s love for all people resonated with listeners around the world, and its catchy melody ensured that it would be stuck in their heads for days on end. In addition to its commercial success, the song also earned critical acclaim, being named one of the best songs of the 2010s by multiple publications. There’s no doubt that Reckless Love is a modern classic, and it will continue to inspire people for years to come.
5 – Intoxicating – David Crowder
David Crowder is a musician who knows how to craft a good song. Intoxicating, released as part of his Illuminate record in 2003, is a perfect example of this.
The acoustic passages in the song are beautiful, and the lyrics are full of imagery and emotion. The song is about the feeling of being in love, and it captures that feeling perfectly. If you’re looking for a song to put on repeat and just lose yourself in, then look no further than Intoxicating.
6 – Jesus Freak – DC Talk
DC Talk was a Christian rap and rock trio that achieved mainstream success in the 1990s. The group won three Gospel Music Association Dove Awards for their song, “Jesus Freak,” which was released as the lead single on their album of the same name in 1995.
The album was a commercial success, selling over four million copies in the United States. The song helped to break down barriers between Christianity and punk and alternative music subcultures.
7 – Why Me Lord – Kris Kristofferson
Why Me Lord, Kristofferson’s bestselling song, was performed with backup vocals by his future wife Rita Coolidge and Larry Gatlin. The three artists had a natural chemistry that was evident in their performance.
The song was a hit with fans and critics alike, and it helped to solidify Kristofferson’s place in the country music scene. Interestingly, the song was originally written as a gospel tune. However, Kristofferson decided to add a country twang to the song, which helped to make it more relatable to his audience. The decision paid off, and Why Me Lord remains one of Kristofferson’s most beloved songs.
8 – Messiah – Handel
The song in question is, of course, “Handel’s Messiah.” First performed as an Easter offering in Dublin, Ireland, on April 13, 1742, the work has since become a staple of the holiday season, performed in music halls and churches around the world.
Part of the reason for its enduring popularity is its wide range of emotions, from the exuberant “Hallelujah” chorus to the reflective “I Know That My Redeemer Liveth.” But above all, it is the music itself that touch our hearts and lifts our spirits, reminding us of the hope and joy that lies at the heart of the Christmas season.
9 – The Altar And The Door – Casting Crowns
Mark Hall, the lead singer for the Grammy-winning band Casting Crowns, knows a thing or two about leading young people. After all, he’s been doing it for over a decade. In 2007, he released The Altar and the Door, a album that deals with some of the compromises young people make as they try to find their way in the world.
The album was inspired by Hall’s own experience as a youth pastor, as well as by the MySpace pages he saw of young people who wanted to be youth pastors but were making worldly compromises. The album is a reminder that, no matter what we’re facing in life, we can always find our way back to God.
10 – Jesus Loves Me – Anna Bartlett Warner
Jesus Loves Me is a much-loved Christian hymn that has been sung by generations of Christians. The song was written by Anna Bartlett Warner in 1859, and the music was added by William Batchelder Bradbury in 1862. Bradbury also wrote the famous Jesus Loves Me chorus.
The song is based on Scripture, specifically John 3:16, and it speaks of God’s love for us and our need for Him. There is something special and timeless about this hymn that has captured the hearts of so many people over the years. Whether sang in churches, homes, or anywhere else, Jesus Loves Me is sure to fill listeners with a sense of hope, peace, and joy.
11 – Holy, Holy, Holy Lord God Almighty – Reginald Heber
The hymn “Holy, Holy, Holy Lord God Almighty” is one of the most popular hymns in the English-speaking world. Though it was written by Reginald Heber, it was not released until after his death. The tune for the hymn is borrowed from “Nicaea” by John Bacchus Dykes.
Numerous people have released this song, including Stephen Curtis Chapman, Hillsong United, and the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. The lyrics of the hymn are based on the Book of Isaiah in the Bible. The first verse describes the holiness of God, and the second verse calls on all people to worship God. The third verse is a prayer for God’s protection and guidance. The fourth verse is a declaration of faith in God. The fifth verse is a prayer for strength in times of trouble. The sixth verse is a call to action for all people to follow God’s will. The seventh verse is a prayer for God’s blessings. The eighth verse is a declaration of praise for all that God has done.
12 – Yes I Will – Vertical Worship
Yes I Will is a song by the band Vertical Worship that was released in 2016. The song is based on Psalms 34, which is a Biblical passage that calls on people to follow the Lord regardless of circumstances.
The lyrics of the song reflect this message, with the singer declaring their intention to follow the Lord no matter what happens. The song has been popular with both Christian and secular audiences, and it has been featured on various radio stations and television shows. Yes I Will is a reminder that people need to keep their faith even when times are tough, and it is an inspiring call to action for everyone who hears it.
13 – Joy To The World – Isaac Watts
Isaac Watts is a name that may not be familiar to many people, but his impact has been felt by music lovers for centuries. Watts was a prolific hymn writer in the 18th century, and his songs continue to be popular both inside and outside of the church.
One of his most well-known compositions is ” Joy to the World,” which was first released in 1719. The song is based on Psalms 96 and 98, as well as Genesis 3, and its message of hope and redemption has resonated with people of all faiths. In recent years, the song has been recorded by a wide range of artists, including Chris Tomlin and Planetshakers. No matter who is singing it, “Joy to the World” remains one of the most beloved Christmas carols of all time.
14 – There Was Jesus – Dolly Parton & Zach Williams
When Zach Williams penned the lyrics to “There Was Jesus,” he had no idea that the song would become such a sensation. But in the months since its release, the track has become a mainstay on Christian radio stations and an anthem of hope for believers around the world.
Williams says that he wrote the song as a reminder to himself and other Christians that God is always there, even in the darkest of times. And he knew from the moment he finished writing it that he wanted to record it with country legend Dolly Parton. Parton brings her trademark warmth and positivity to the song, infusing it with an optimism that is sure to lift listeners’ spirits. It’s clear that “There Was Jesus” was meant to be, and Williams is proud to have helped create a song that is bringing so much hope and comfort to people across the globe.
15 – How Great Thou Art – Carl Gustav Boberg
Swedish poet Carl Boberg wrote “O Store Gud” / “How Great Thou Art” as a poem in 1886, setting it to a traditional Swedish hymn. The song was later translated into Russian before being translated into English.
Boberg was inspired to write the poem after hearing a storm one day while he was out walking. The poem reflects on how the storm is powerful, but ultimately God is even more powerful. The hymn has been recorded by many artists over the years, including David Bowie and Barbra Streisand. It remains a popular choice for hymnals today.
16 – Awake My Soul – Hillsong Worship
The popular worship song “Awake My Soul” by Hillsong Worship was released in 2020 and was inspired by Psalm 57. The songwriter Brooke Ligertwood drew inspiration from Isaiah 6:1 for the song’s verses. The chorus of the song includes the line “awake my soul, for you are God alone.”
This line is based on Psalm 57:8, which says “Awake, my glory! Awake, lute and harp! I will awaken the dawn.” The rest of the chorus is based on Isaiah 6:1, which says “I saw the Lord seated on a throne, high and exalted, and the train of his robe filled the temple.” By basing the chorus of her song on these two biblical passages, Ligertwood gives us a powerful reminder that we serve a mighty and awesome God.
17 – Here I Am To Worship – Tim Hughs
Here I Am To Worship is a song written and performed by Tim Hughs. It was released on his debut album in 2001. The song has a simple, yet powerful message. It speaks of our need to surrender ourselves to God and worship Him with our whole hearts.
The lyrics are based on the scripture verses from Isaiah 6:1-8. These verses tell of Isaiah’s vision of God sitting on His throne in heaven. Isaiah recognizes his own sinful nature and realizes that he is not worthy to be in God’s presence. However, God cleanses him and calls him to be His servant. This song is a beautiful reminder of our need to surrender ourselves to God and worship Him with all our hearts.
18 Amazing Grace – John Newton
Amazing Grace is a hymn that has captured the hearts of people around the world. Written in 1772 by John Newton, a former slave-owner who turned abolitionist, the hymn has become an anthem for hope and redemption.
Each year, it is performed over 19 million times, in churches and homes, at concerts and sporting events. There are few songs that can match its ability to transcend time and culture, and its message of grace and forgiveness continues to resonate with people of all backgrounds. Whether they are facing personal trials or mourning the loss of a loved one, people turn to Amazing Grace for comfort and strength. In a world that is often characterized by anger and division, this simple hymn reminds us of the power of love and reconciliation.
The history of praise and worship songs
The history of praise and worship songs is often traced back to the early days of the church, when Christians would gather to sing hymns of thanksgiving and adoration.
However, the roots of praise and worship music actually go much deeper, all the way back to the Old Testament. The book of Psalms, for example, is full of songs that offer praise to God for His goodness and power.
In the New Testament, we see Jesus Himself singing a hymn with His disciples before His betrayal and crucifixion. And throughout the history of the church, Christians have continued to sing praises to God as a means of both worship and evangelism. Today, praise and worship songs are an essential part of many churches’ worship services.
They provide an opportunity for believers to express their love and devotion to God, while also reaching out to those who may not yet know Him. As such, they undoubtedly hold an important place in our history and our future.
How to choose the right Christian worship song for you
The number of Christian worship songs available can be overwhelming, making it difficult to choose the right one for your needs. However, there are a few factors that you can consider to help you make your decision.
First, think about the purpose of the song. Is it for a specific holiday or event? Are you trying to convey a particular message? Once you have a clear idea of what you want the song to accomplish, you can narrow down your options.
Next, take into account your audience. Are you singing for a group of children? Adults? Seniors? Each age group has different preferences, so it’s important to choose a song that will resonate with them.
Finally, don’t forget to consider your own personal style. After all, this is your worship song, so it should be something that you’re comfortable singing. By taking all of these factors into consideration, you can choose the perfect Christian worship song for you.
The benefits of singing Christian praise and worship songs
Christian praise and worship songs have the ability to uplift our spirits and draw us closer to God. In Psalm 100:2, we are told to “serve the Lord with gladness” and “come before his presence with singing.”
When we sing praises to God, we are acknowledging His greatness and thanking Him for His blessings. We are also inviting His presence into our lives. As we worship God through song, we are opening our hearts to Him and surrendering our lives to His will.
Christian praise and worship songs can also be a powerful tool for evangelism. As we share these songs with others, we are sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ and inviting them into a life-changing relationship with God. In addition, these songs can provide comfort and hope in difficult times.
When we trust in God and lift our voices in praise, He will give us strength and peace. No matter what circumstances we face, God is always with us, and He will never leave us or forsake us. Christian praise and worship songs remind us of His faithfulness and help us to keep our eyes on Him.