Christian Songs for Hard Times: 12 Choices for Encouragement

introduction

Life has a way of bringing us to our knees at times. Whether it’s a sudden financial setback, a health crisis, or the slow weariness of ongoing personal struggles, we all face moments that test our faith. These are the hard times that can feel overwhelming, even suffocating. In such moments, it’s easy to wonder where God is. Yet, history—and Scripture—show us time and again that God is never absent. His presence is most evident in the darkest times, where His grace, peace, and love meet us most powerfully.

One of the most beautiful ways God ministers to us in these seasons is through Christian songs for hard times. Just as the psalms of David echo the cries of a weary heart and the hope of a renewed spirit, Christian music offers us words when we can’t find our own. These songs remind us that God’s love is constant and His promises are true, even when the storms of life rage around us.

Take, for instance, Horatio Spafford’s timeless hymn It Is Well With My Soul. Penned after unimaginable personal loss, Spafford’s lyrics, “When sea billows roll,” capture the pain of hard times yet shine with the unshakable hope found in Christ. Songs like this are more than just melodies—they’re anchors for our souls, lifting us toward heaven when we feel weighed down by earthly burdens.

In this post, we’ll explore 12 powerful Christian songs for hard times. These songs are a beautiful reminder that we don’t walk alone. Whether through the stirring lyrics of a modern worship song or the comforting lines of a traditional hymn, you’ll find encouragement, hope, and strength to press on.

If you’re facing difficult times, these songs might be just what your heart needs today. Let’s dive in and discover how God can speak to us through music in ways words alone often cannot.

1. Way Maker – Leeland

Few Christian songs for hard times resonate as deeply as Way Maker. Originally written by Nigerian gospel artist Sinach and popularized by Leeland, this worship anthem has touched hearts across the globe. The lyrics proclaim, “You are here, mending every heart,” and affirm that God is not only present in our pain but actively working to restore and heal. In hard times, Way Maker reminds us that even when we can’t see a solution, God is the miracle worker who parts seas and moves mountains on our behalf.

Its powerful chorus is like a declaration of faith in action: “Way maker, miracle worker, promise keeper, light in the darkness.” These words give us language to remind ourselves—and one another—that God is always working for our good, even when life feels uncertain. Whether you’re navigating financial struggles, health challenges, or the storms of a personal crisis, this song reminds us that our God is a way maker, bringing hope and light even to our darkest times.

2. Praise You in This Storm – Casting Crowns

When life feels like one relentless downpour, Praise You in This Storm by Casting Crowns is one of the best Christian songs for hard times to remind us of the power of worship. Inspired by stories of real people enduring loss and hardship, this song captures the heartache of life’s storms while pointing us toward the peace that comes from lifting our eyes to God.

The lyrics, “And I’ll praise You in this storm, and I will lift my hands,” echo the sentiments of the Apostle Paul, who worshipped God even while imprisoned. This song teaches us that praise is not about denying our pain but about declaring that God is bigger than our circumstances. The act of praising God amidst trials shifts our focus from the chaos around us to the steady presence of God, who promises to never leave us or forsake us.

For anyone facing difficult times, this song is a reminder that peace and strength are found in worship. It’s not always easy to praise God when life is overwhelming, but Praise You in This Storm encourages us to trust Him with every tear and every trial.

3. It Is Well With My Soul – The Isaacs

Some Christian songs for hard times have a story that is just as moving as their lyrics, and It Is Well With My Soul is one such song. Penned by Horatio Spafford after losing his four daughters in a shipwreck, the hymn is a testament to finding peace in God amid unimaginable loss. The Isaacs’ rendition brings a soulful and heartfelt depth to this timeless classic, infusing it with bluegrass harmonies that seem to echo the ache and hope of Spafford’s original words.

“When peace like a river attendeth my way, when sorrows like sea billows roll, whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say, it is well, it is well with my soul.” These lines remind us that true peace is not found in the absence of trials but in the presence of God. Even in the darkest times, this hymn offers the assurance that God is sovereign, and His grace is sufficient.

The Isaacs’ interpretation brings a fresh perspective to the hymn, making it one of the most enduring Christian songs for hard times. It’s a beautiful reminder that no matter what life throws at us, we can rest in the knowledge that God holds us firmly in His hands.

4. Goodness of God – CeCe Winans

CeCe Winans’ heartfelt rendition of Goodness of God has become one of the most cherished Christian songs for hard times. Her soulful voice delivers every line with sincerity and conviction, inviting us to reflect on the faithfulness of our Creator. The lyrics, “All my life You have been faithful, all my life You have been so, so good,” are a powerful reminder that God’s goodness is not confined to the mountain-top moments of life.

In hard times, it can be easy to lose sight of God’s hand at work. Yet, Goodness of God calls us to look back and remember how He has carried us through past trials. This reflection builds trust for the road ahead, even when it feels uncertain. CeCe Winans’ interpretation highlights the unfailing love of God that pursues us, reminding us that His goodness and mercy follow us all the days of our lives (Psalm 23:6).

For anyone struggling to see the light, this song serves as an anchor, offering reassurance that God’s love is steadfast through every season of life.

5. Fear Is A Liar – Zach Williams

Fear can be one of the most crippling emotions, especially during hard times. In Fear Is A Liar, Zach Williams confronts this emotion head-on, delivering a message of hope and freedom. The lyrics, “Fear is a liar, he will take your breath,” resonate deeply with those battling anxiety, self-doubt, or feelings of unworthiness. However, the song doesn’t leave us there. It shifts the focus to the truth that God’s perfect love casts out fear (1 John 4:18).

This song has become a lifeline for many during their darkest times. It’s a reminder that fear doesn’t have the final say—God does. By declaring that fear is a liar, Williams empowers listeners to reject the lies that often creep in during difficult seasons. Instead, we are invited to stand on the promises of God, who is always present and who holds the power to calm our hearts.

For those searching for Christian songs for hard times, Fear Is A Liar offers a much-needed reminder that God’s truth always triumphs over fear’s lies.

6. There Was Jesus – Zach Williams and Dolly Parton

Few Christian songs for hard times capture the reassurance of God’s presence as beautifully as There Was Jesus. This moving duet between Zach Williams and Dolly Parton illustrates the comforting truth that God is with us in every season of life. The lyrics, “In the waiting, in the searching, in the healing and the hurting, like a blessing buried in the broken pieces, there was Jesus,” remind us that God’s presence is constant, even when we don’t recognize it.

Whether on the mountaintop of joy or in the valley of hardship, this song reminds us that we are never alone. The blend of Williams’ raw vocals and Parton’s signature tenderness makes this song deeply relatable and encouraging for anyone walking through difficult times.

There Was Jesus speaks directly to those who feel abandoned or forgotten in their struggles, affirming that God’s love never leaves us. It’s a song of comfort and hope, a powerful reminder that He is always near, guiding us through every storm. There Was Jesus is a reminder that God never leaves or forsakes us.

7. Hold On to Me – Lauren Daigle

Lauren Daigle’s Hold On to Me is a heartfelt plea for God’s steady presence in the midst of life’s uncertainties. The lyrics, “Hold on to me when it’s too dark to see You,” capture the raw emotions of someone grappling with doubt, fear, or the weight of hard times. This song beautifully conveys the truth that even when our strength fails, God is the anchor that holds us firm.

As one of the standout Christian songs for hard times, Hold On to Me resonates deeply with anyone walking through personal struggles, from mental health challenges to relational difficulties. Daigle’s powerful yet tender delivery of this song serves as a reminder that it’s okay to admit our need for God’s help. In fact, acknowledging our dependence on Him is where healing begins.

This song doesn’t just cry out for help—it reassures us that God’s love is unwavering, holding onto us even when we feel like letting go. It’s a comforting reminder that in the darkest times, we can trust in God’s steady hand to carry us through.

8. Graves Into Gardens – Brandon Lake

Brandon Lake’s Graves Into Gardens is a bold and triumphant declaration of God’s transformative power. With lyrics like, “You turn graves into gardens, You turn bones into armies,” this song proclaims that God specializes in turning impossible situations into miracles. For anyone facing a seemingly hopeless circumstance, this anthem reminds us that our God is a God of resurrection and restoration.

This song’s imagery draws from powerful biblical stories: the valley of dry bones brought to life (Ezekiel 37) and the resurrection of Jesus, who turned the grave into a symbol of victory. Graves Into Gardens reminds us that God’s power is limitless—He can bring beauty from ashes, hope from despair, and new life from what feels dead.

As one of the most dynamic Christian songs for hard times, Graves Into Gardens inspires believers to hold onto faith, no matter how bleak their situation may appear. It’s a song that challenges us to believe in the God who makes all things new.

9. Battle Belongs – Phil Wickham

Phil Wickham’s Battle Belongs is a worship song that calls believers to surrender their struggles into God’s hands. The lyrics, “When all I see is the battle, You see my victory,” remind us that our perspective is often limited, but God sees the end from the beginning. For those experiencing hard times, this song offers hope that the battles we face are not ours to fight alone.

The theme of surrender is central to this song, encouraging listeners to take their burdens to the Lord in prayer. It reflects the biblical principle found in 2 Chronicles 20:15, where God tells His people, “The battle is not yours, but God’s.” When life feels overwhelming, Battle Belongs serves as a reminder that our job is to trust, worship, and step aside while God works on our behalf.

This song is a powerful addition to the list of Christian songs for hard times, reminding us that victory doesn’t come through our own strength but through faith in the One who never fails.

10. Even If – MercyMe

MercyMe’s Even If is one of the most profound Christian songs for hard times, offering a perspective of faith that doesn’t waver in the face of uncertainty. Inspired by the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego (Daniel 3:17-18), this song reflects the bold confidence of believers who trust in God’s power but remain steadfast even when His plans don’t align with their desires. The lyrics, “I know You’re able, and I know You can, but even if You don’t, my hope is You alone,” remind us that God’s goodness transcends our circumstances.

This song speaks to those grappling with unanswered prayers or unexpected disappointments, encouraging them to find peace in God’s sovereignty. It’s not a denial of pain or struggle but an invitation to surrender to God’s perfect will. The message is clear: even when life feels uncertain or prayers seem unanswered, we can trust in God’s ultimate plan for good.

As a powerful addition to Christian songs for hard times, Even If helps us declare that our faith isn’t conditional—it’s grounded in who God is, not just what He does.

11. Eye of the Storm – Ryan Stevenson

Eye of the Storm by Ryan Stevenson has become a lifeline for many navigating personal struggles. With its lyrics, “In the eye of the storm, You remain in control,” the song captures the peace that comes from trusting God amidst chaos. The imagery of a storm—a universal metaphor for hard times—makes this song deeply relatable for anyone facing trials, whether financial, relational, or health-related.

What makes this song so powerful is its honesty. It doesn’t shy away from acknowledging the weight of life’s challenges, but it also points to the unwavering presence of God, who stands firm when everything else feels uncertain. The message of Eye of the Storm aligns with Philippians 4:7, which speaks of the peace of God that surpasses all understanding.

This song is a gentle reminder that we’re not alone in our struggles. It’s one of the most comforting Christian songs for hard times, offering assurance that even in life’s fiercest storms, God remains in control, guiding us safely through.

12. Great Is Thy Faithfulness – Carrie Underwood and CeCe Winans

Few hymns are as timeless and cherished as Great Is Thy Faithfulness, and the duet by Carrie Underwood and CeCe Winans brings fresh vibrancy to this classic. Rooted in Lamentations 3:22-23, this hymn is a beautiful declaration of God’s steadfast love and unchanging nature: “Morning by morning new mercies I see; all I have needed Thy hand hath provided.”

For believers walking through hard times, this hymn offers a powerful reminder of God’s faithfulness in every season. The rich harmonies of Underwood and Winans amplify the hymn’s message, stirring the heart and lifting the spirit. It’s a song that doesn’t merely point us to God’s promises but invites us to reflect on His proven track record of goodness in our lives.

Great Is Thy Faithfulness is more than just a hymn—it’s a lifeline for those struggling to find hope. As one of the most enduring Christian songs for hard times, it reminds us that no matter how difficult the road, God’s love and provision are new every morning.

Conclusion

Hard times are an inevitable part of life. Whether we’re navigating the loss of a loved one, struggling through health issues, or facing financial challenges, these moments test our faith and resilience. Yet, in the midst of life’s storms, music has a unique way of reminding us of God’s unwavering presence. The 12 Christian songs for hard times we’ve explored here serve as powerful tools to help us find comfort and strength when we need it most.

Songs like Way Maker inspire us to declare God’s faithfulness, even when we can’t see the way forward. The timeless promises in Great Is Thy Faithfulness encourage us to remember that God’s mercies are new every morning, offering hope for today and strength for tomorrow. Whether you find solace in the soulful harmonies of CeCe Winans’ Goodness of God or are moved by the raw honesty of Zach Williams’ Fear Is A Liar, each of these songs carries a message of hope tailored for life’s hardest moments.

Christian songs for hard times are more than just melodies—they are lifelines, connecting us to God’s truth when words fail us. They remind us that God is not distant in our struggles but is actively working, comforting, and guiding us every step of the way. Whether through worship or quiet reflection, let these songs guide your heart back to the firm foundation of God’s promises.

Have you turned to any of these songs during your difficult seasons? Or is there a favorite Christian song for hard times that has brought you comfort and peace? Share your story in the comments below—we’d love to hear how God has used music to strengthen your faith!