20 Encouraging Christian Songs for Hard Times

Music can serve as a lifeboat when life dumps you into a stormy sea of difficulties. Our collection of 20 upbeat Christian songs for difficult times acts as a musical remedy to uplift your spirits, encourage hope, and calm your soul.

One way to find encouragement and comfort during difficult times is through music. If you’re feeling lost or overwhelmed, take a step back, breathe, and listen to some uplifting Christian songs. To help you get started, we’ve compiled a list of 20 great songs that can inspire and empower you during hard times.

1. “How Great is Our God” by Chris Tomlin

Chris Tomlin - How Great Is Our God (Lyrics And Chords)Chris Tomlin – How Great Is Our God (Lyrics And Chords)

“How Great is Our God ” by Chris Tomlin is a praise and worship song that speaks of the greatness of God. The song is based on Psalm 86: 10. It was released in 2004 as the lead single from Tomlin’s second studio album, “Arriving.” It became one of the best-selling Christian songs of all time.

2. “Do it again” by Elevation Worship

Do It Again | Live | Elevation WorshipDo It Again | Live | Elevation Worship

“Do it again” by Elevation Worship is about trusting in God and His plans for your life. He always knows what’s best for you, even if it doesn’t always make sense or seem like what you want.

3. “Trust in You” by Lauren Daigle

Lauren Daigle - Trust In You (Live)Lauren Daigle – Trust In You (Live)

“Trust in You” by Lauren Daigle is about trusting in God for everything, no matter the situation. The singer says they can conquer any challenges since God is by their side. It’s a great reminder that no matter what challenges or difficulties you might be facing, as long as you trust in God, He will always come through for you. 

4. “There Was Jesus” by Zach Williams, Dolly Parton

Zach Williams, Dolly Parton - There Was Jesus (Official Music Video)Zach Williams, Dolly Parton – There Was Jesus (Official Music Video)

Zach Williams collaborates with the iconic Dolly Parton to bring you “There Was Jesus”. This track is a poignant narrative of life’s battles and the habit of overlooking the ever-present love of Jesus Christ. Whether it’s times of joy or times of despair, the song assures us that Jesus is perpetually by our side, offering an anthem of unwavering faith and optimism in Him.

5. “Blessings” by Laura Story

Blessings - Laura Story (with lyrics)Blessings – Laura Story (with lyrics)

Zach Williams collaborates with the iconic Dolly Parton to bring you “There Was Jesus”. This track is a poignant narrative of life’s battles and the habit of overlooking the ever-present love of Jesus Christ. Whether it’s times of joy or times of despair, the song assures us that Jesus is perpetually by our side, offering an anthem of unwavering faith and optimism in Him. 

6. “Sweetly Broken” by Jeremy Riddle

Sweetly Broken - Jeremy RiddleSweetly Broken – Jeremy Riddle

“Sweetly Broken” from Jeremy Riddle is a beautiful exposition of God’s awe-inspiring grace. It outlines the love and compassion of God while also highlighting the strength and hope that He embodies. A poignant reminder that in our bleakest hours, we can always turn to Him – God is an ever-present source of comfort and solace.

7. “You’re Going to Be OK” by Brian & Jenn Johnson

You're Gonna Be Okay (Lyric Video) - Brian & Jenn Johnson | After All These YearsYou’re Gonna Be Okay (Lyric Video) – Brian & Jenn Johnson | After All These Years

“Sweetly Broken” from Jeremy Riddle is a beautiful exposition of God’s awe-inspiring grace. It outlines the love and compassion of God while also highlighting the strength and hope that He embodies. A poignant reminder that in our bleakest hours, we can always turn to Him – God is an ever-present source of comfort and solace.

8. “It Is Well” by Kristene DiMarco & Bethel Music

It Is Well - Kristene DiMarco | You Make Me BraveIt Is Well – Kristene DiMarco | You Make Me Brave

“Sweetly Broken” from Jeremy Riddle is a beautiful exposition of God’s awe-inspiring grace. It outlines the love and compassion of God while also highlighting the strength and hope that He embodies. A poignant reminder that in our bleakest hours, we can always turn to Him – God is an ever-present source of comfort and solace.

9. “Francesca Battistelli” by Strangely Dim

Francesca Battistelli - Strangely Dim (Official Lyric Video)Francesca Battistelli – Strangely Dim (Official Lyric Video)

“Strangely Dim” is about a woman who is struggling with faith. She has been in a dark place for so long, but when she finally finds the courage to believe in something again, she finds peace. The song is about finding faith and peace when you feel lost.

10. “God Of All My Days” by Casting Crowns

Casting Crowns - God of All My Days (Official Lyric Video)Casting Crowns – God of All My Days (Official Lyric Video)

A hymn of gratitude, “God of All My Days,” paints a vivid image of divine love. The singer voices their appreciation for God’s unwavering affection and discusses the unbreakable bond they share. With poignant lines like, “In my blindness, God, You are my vision, and in my bondage, God, You are my freedom,” it reassures us of God’s ceaseless presence, irrespective of circumstances.

11. “Way Maker” by Sinach

SINACH | WAY MAKER - OFFICIAL VIDEOSINACH | WAY MAKER – OFFICIAL VIDEO

The gifted Nigerian-born gospel singer and songwriter, Sinach, introduces “Way Maker.” It’s a song that emphasizes God as our guide, the beacon that lights our path when we’re lost. Although the world may appear desolate, and surrender seems the easiest option, God continually instills hope. This tune is a testament to our reliance on God for guidance, protection, and sustenance.

12. “The Perfect Wisdom Of Our God” by Keith & Kristyn Getty

Perfect Wisdom of Our God (Official Lyric Video) - Keith & Kristyn GettyPerfect Wisdom of Our God (Official Lyric Video) – Keith & Kristyn Getty

An acoustic worship tune, “The Perfect Wisdom Of Our God,” allows Keith to express God’s unparalleled wisdom. The song is a contemplation on God’s ways, which are beyond human comprehension. It serves as a gentle reminder that God’s work within us is a continual process, and there’s always more grace, wisdom, and love to receive from Him.

13. “Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone)” by BYU Noteworthy

Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone) | BYU Noteworthy (Chris Tomlin A Cappella Cover)Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone) | BYU Noteworthy (Chris Tomlin A Cappella Cover)

“Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone)” is a song about how amazing it is to be free from the chains of sin. In the song, the singers proclaim that their chains have been broken and they have been set free. They also speak of how God’s mercies and love are never-ending.  

14. “King Of The World” by Natalie Grant

Natalie Grant - King Of The World (Official Acoustic Video)Natalie Grant – King Of The World (Official Acoustic Video)

Natalie Grant presents “King of the World,” a song that attests to God’s reign over the universe. It’s a melody that reminds us of the immense power and authority of God, emphasising how His dominion extends over everything we know – and beyond. 

15. “Overcomer” by Mandisa

Mandisa - OvercomerMandisa – Overcomer

Radiating hope and resilience, Mandisa’s “Overcomer” stands as a testament to the power of faith over doubt. This energizing tune is an invitation to remain hopeful and steadfast in God, regardless of the challenges life throws your way.

16. “Hills and Valleys” by Tauren Wells

Tauren Wells - Hills and Valleys (Acoustic Video)Tauren Wells – Hills and Valleys (Acoustic Video)

“Hills and Valleys” depicts life’s peaks and troughs, emphasizing how God is there to elevate us when we’re at our lowest. It’s a heartfelt ballad that reminds us to place our trust in God when times get tough.

17. “Keep Fighting the Good Fight” by Unspoken

Unspoken - Good Fight (Official Lyric Video)Unspoken – Good Fight (Official Lyric Video)

Unspoken’s “Keep Fighting the Good Fight” is an anthem of resilience. It encourages listeners to keep pushing, never surrender, and to hold onto hope, even when life seems at its bleakest. 

18. “All My Hope” by Crowder

Crowder - All My Hope ft. Tauren WellsCrowder – All My Hope ft. Tauren Wells

The song “All My Hope” by Crowder is about finding peace in the midst of the storm. The song starts with a line about getting caught up in the storm, which could be referencing a tumultuous time in one’s life. It goes on to talk about having hope in Jesus and being forgiven. It then closes with a message of hope and restoration. 

19. “Chain Breaker” by Zach Williams

Zach Williams - Chain Breaker (Official Lyric Video)Zach Williams – Chain Breaker (Official Lyric Video)

Unspoken’s “Keep Fighting the Good Fight” is an anthem of resilience. It encourages listeners to keep pushing, never surrender, and to hold onto hope, even when life seems at its bleakest.

20. “Tell Your Heart To Beat Again” by Danny Gokey

"Tell Your Heart To Beat Again" - Danny Gokey (Lyrics)“Tell Your Heart To Beat Again” – Danny Gokey (Lyrics)

Danny Gokey’s song is a moving piece about resilience and hope in the face of adversity. Singing from personal experience, Danny inspires listeners to reignite the life in their hearts, delivering an optimistic message that’s easily applicable to anyone’s life.

Conclusion

The playlist above gathers some of the most uplifting Christian songs perfect for those enduring trying times. Find solace and encouragement in these melodies, each one a gentle reminder that no matter where you are or what you’re experiencing, you’re never alone – God is with you, always caring, always guiding.