Drawing from the teachings of the Bible, Christian songs have a long history of providing solace in our most difficult moments, and nothing is more challenging in life than saying the final goodbye to someone you love.
In this article, we will explore some of the best Christian funeral songs, each with its unique and thoughtful message of hope, comfort, and remembrance.
“10,000 Reasons (Bless the Lord)” by Matt Redman
Song year: 2013
The song encourages listeners to worship God and give thanks for all His blessings, reminding them that even amid sadness and loss, there is still much to be grateful for. The upbeat melody and powerful message of hope and joy help uplift mourners’ spirits and offer comfort in their time of need.
“Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone) ” by Chris Tomlin
Song year: 2006
This song has a simple melody that is easy to sing along to, and its message of hope and comfort makes it a popular choice for Christian funerals. The song’s focus on God’s grace and forgiveness can provide comfort and solace to mourners, reminding them that even during loss and grief, they can find peace and comfort in the Lord.
“Anchor” by Skillet
Song year: 2019
“Anchor” by Skillet is a strong rock song that speaks of the significance of hanging on to God in times of difficulty. This song is a fantastic choice for a Christian funeral since it encourages and supports those mourning, reminding them that God is their anchor and will see them through their challenges.
“Another In The Fire” by Hillsong United
Song year: 2019
Hillsong United’s “Another in the Fire” is a contemporary worship song that recognizes and celebrates God’s presence and protection despite life’s difficulties. This song is a fantastic choice for a Christian funeral since it brings peace and encouragement to those mourning, reminding them of God’s ongoing presence and care.
“As It Is in Heaven” by Matt Maher
Song year: 2008
“As It Is in Heaven” by Matt Maher is a modern worship song that speaks about the longing for heaven and the belief that one day, the kingdom of God will be fully realized on earth. The song encourages listeners to pray for God’s will to be done on earth as it is in heaven and to trust that all will be made right in the Lord’s presence.
“Ave Maria” by Celtic Woman
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=usADINi17cI
Song year: 2005
“Ave Maria” by Celtic Woman is a beautiful classical tune that talks of the grace and love of Mary, the mother of Jesus. This song is a fantastic choice for a Christian funeral as it delivers a message of consolation and reassurance to those mourning, reminding them of the love and compassion of Mary.
“Beautiful Savior” by Planetshakers
Song year: 2006
“Beautiful Savior” by Planetshakers is a modern praise song that celebrates the beauty and grandeur of Jesus. This song is a fantastic choice for a Christian funeral as it brings hope and reassurance to those mourning, reminding them of the love and grace of Jesus.
“Because He Lives” by Bill Gaither
Song year: 2001
“Because He Lives” is a classic gospel song that Bill Gaither popularized. This staple of Christian worship music speaks of the resurrected life available through Jesus Christ, and the hope believers have in the resurrection. This message of hope provides comfort and reminds them that their loved one is now in heaven and no longer suffering.
“Broken Vessels” by Hillsong Worship
Song year: 2014
“Broken Vessels” by Hillsong Praise is a modern worship song that accepts our shortcomings and declares that God may still use us for His purposes. This is a fitting song at a Christian burial since it comforts the bereaved by reminding them that God may use even the most tragic circumstances to further His plans.
“Cornerstone” by Hillsong
Song year: 2012
“Cornerstone” by Hillsong is a modern praise song that emphasizes God as the basis and cornerstone of our existence. This song is a fantastic choice for a Christian funeral since it delivers a message of hope and strength, telling people mourning that they may believe in God and find solace in Him throughout their time of loss.
“Dancing With the Angels” by Monk & Neagle
Song year: 2009
“Dancing With the Angels” by Monk & Neagle is a beautiful and uplifting song suitable for a Christian funeral service. The song has a joyful and celebratory tone, which is fitting for honoring the life of a loved one who has passed away. The lyrics express hope in the afterlife and the belief that the deceased is now dancing with the angels.
“Footprints in the Sand” by Leona Lewis
Song year: 2007
The lyrics describe the journey of life and how sometimes we may feel like we are walking alone, but in reality, God has always been there, leaving footprints in the sand as a symbol of His presence and guidance. The song’s touching melody and its comforting and uplifting message make it a fitting choice for a Christian funeral service.
“Go Rest High on That Mountain” by Vince Gill
Song year: 1994
“Go Rest High on That Mountain” by Vince Gill is a melancholy song that speaks of a loved one who has passed away and the thought of them now being at peace and resting in paradise. This song is a fantastic option for a Christian memorial since it brings peace and ease to people in mourning, reminding them that their loved one is now in a better place.
“Hallelujah” by Pentatonix
Song year: 2016
Pentatonix’s version of “Hallelujah” is a unique and powerful interpretation of the song. It speaks of God’s love, grace, and mercy, a powerful reminder of the hope and comfort you can find in God, even in our darkest moments. The song’s message of hope and the beauty of its performance make it a moving tribute to a loved one who has passed away.
“Healing Is in Your Hands” by Christy Nockels
Song year: 2010
The lyrics emphasize that no matter the situation, whether a mountain or valley, sickness or secret, God’s love is always present and will never leave. The song also highlights that God holds the future, present, and past in His hands and that, through His grace, the singer stands with healing in their own hands.
“Heaven’s Song” by Phil Wickham
Song year: 2009
This contemporary Christian song emphasizes the hope and joy of being in heaven one day. The singer describes feeling restless and longing for where they belong. Its hopeful message is often played at Christian funeral services as a reminder of the eternal life promised to believers in Jesus.
“Heaven’s Now My Home” by Libby L. Allen
Song year: 2012
“Heaven’s Now My Home” is a song about someone who has passed away and gone to heaven. The singer regrets leaving those behind on earth but takes comfort in knowing God needs them in heaven. The singer also expresses comfort in knowing that they will meet their loved ones again someday.
“Holy, Holy, Holy” by Shane and Shane
Song year: 2019
A lovely praise song proclaims God’s holiness and grandeur is “Holy, Holy, Holy” by Shane and Shane. A Christian funeral might benefit from this hymn because of its message of hope and consolation via its reminder of God’s majesty and the promise of eternal life.
“Homesick” by Mercy Me
Song year: 2004
The lyrics say that this world is temporary and that the singer’s true home is heaven with God. It encourages listeners to keep their focus on heaven and live their lives in a way that honors God so that, when the time comes, they can go home to heaven and be reunited with God. The singer hopes to reunite with those who have passed away.
“How Great Thou Art” by Chris Rice
Song year: 2001
“How Great Thou Art” by Chris Rice is a lovely hymn depicting God’s vastness and majesty. This song is a fantastic choice for a Christian funeral since it brings consolation and hope to those mourning, reminding them of God’s love and strength.
“I Can Only Imagine” by Mercy Me
Song year: 2004
“I Can Only Imagine” by Mercy Me is a popular song that is often played at funerals. Its lyrics express hope and comfort for those who have lost a loved one. The encouraging lyrics reflect on the moment when the singer imagines meeting Jesus face-to-face in heaven and expresses the joy and wonder of being in the presence of God.
“I Surrender All” by Carrie Underwood
Song year: 2021
“I Surrender All” by Carrie Underwood is a beautiful praise song that speaks of the surrender of our life to God. This song is a fantastic choice for a Christian funeral since it encourages people mourning to commit their troubles and concerns to God, who is always with them.
“I Will Rise” by Chris Tomlin
Song year: 2008
This Christian worship song is a message of faith in Jesus Christ and the resurrection that gives us courage in the face of death. Although our bodies may perish, the words provide solace in the assurance that our spirits have a haven. The hymn also celebrates Jesus’s victory over death and the promise that we will join Him in paradise without sorrow or anguish.
“There Will Be a Day” by Jeremy Camp
Song year: 2008
This ballad speaks to the belief that one day all suffering, pain, and tears will end, and we will see Jesus face to face. This song can be a source of comfort at a funeral, as it provides a message of hope and assurance that the deceased will be reunited with loved ones in a better place in the future.
“I Will Wait for You (Psalm 130)” by Shane and Shane
Song year: 2019
“I Will Wait for You (Psalm 130)” by Shane and Shane is a lovely song reflecting God’s devotion and patience. This song is a fantastic choice for a Christian funeral since it brings peace and encouragement to those mourning, reminding them that God is always with them and will never abandon them.
“I’ll Fly Away” by Gillian Welch
Song year: 2000
Many musicians have recorded the classic gospel hymn “I’ll Fly Away,” written by Albert E. Brumley and now performed by Gillian Welch. This song speaks about leaving this world behind and going away to paradise, making it an appropriate option for a Christian funeral.
“In Christ Alone” by Keith & Kristyn Getty
Song year: 2006
The song expresses that in Christ, we can find hope, peace, and forgiveness and that even in the face of death, we can be confident in our salvation and the promise of eternal life. The message of the resurrection can bring peace to those who are grieving, reminding them that their loved one is now in the presence of Jesus and that they will one day reunite with them.
“It Is Well With My Soul” by Audrey Assad
Song year: 2016
“It Is Well With My Soul” is a classic hymn first written by Horatio G. Spafford and Philip Bliss. The lyrics express the speaker’s trust in God’s sovereignty and grace, even amid tragedy and suffering. The eternal life that comes after death can comfort those who have lost a loved one. The timeless message and uplifting melody make it a fitting tribute to the life of a loved one.
“Jesus Promised Me a Home” by Jennifer Hudson
Song year: 2008
The song reflects the singer’s belief that Jesus has promised her a home in heaven, and she sings about the comfort and peace that this promise brings her. The lyrics describe the singer’s faith in Jesus and hope for the future. Listeners are reminded that, even though someone may be gone from this world, they are with Jesus in heaven and will have a permanent home.
“Lord, I Need You” by Matt Maher
Song year: 2013
“Lord, I Need You” by Matt Maher is a modern praise song that focuses on the need for God’s aid and guidance. This hymn is appropriate for a Christian burial because of its hope and comfort and the reminder that those in mourning are not alone and may turn to God for help.
“Messiah / You’re Beautiful” by Phil Wickham
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=deqQNFXSH-Q
Song year: 2007
The song speaks of the grace, love, and sacrifice of Jesus, who died on the cross to redeem us. It acknowledges Jesus as the Messiah and the Savior of humanity, who has given us eternal life with Him through his death and resurrection. As a funeral song, it reminds those grieving of the promise of eternal life in heaven and the power of Jesus to heal and restore.
“Morning Has Broken” by Third Day
Song year: 2012
“Morning Has Broken” by Third Day is a moving song that dwells on the comfort and tranquility of a personal connection with God. This song is a fantastic choice for a Christian funeral since it delivers a message of sympathy and hope to those mourning, reminding them of the love and peace that God offers to us.
“My God Is Still the Same” by Sanctus Real
Song year: 2021
“My God Is Still the Same” by Sanctus Real is a beautiful praise song that proclaims the unchanging essence of God, who is always there for us. This song is a fantastic choice for a Christian funeral as it brings hope and stability to those mourning, reminding them that God never changes and will always be with them.
“No More Night” by David Phelps
Song year: 2002
The song is about the hope and excitement of seeing Jesus and being with him in heaven, where there will be no more pain or sadness, only joy, and peace. The words show how much a believer longs for the day when they’ll be with their Lord and Savior and how excited they are for all the beautiful things that will happen in heaven.
“Oceans (Where My Feet May Tread)” by Hillsong United
Song year: 2013
The song encourages the listener to call upon God’s name, keep their eyes above the waves, and rest in His embrace, knowing God will guide them through difficult times. This reassurance can be comforting to those grieving at a funeral, as it reminds them of the presence and love of God, even in their pain.
“On Eagle’s Wings” by Michael Joncas
Song year: 1977
This song speaks to God’s promises of protection and comfort from Psalm 91 and Isaiah 40:31. The lyrics describe God as a refuge and a rock that protects from fear, terror, and danger. The song offers comfort and hope to those in mourning because even in the darkest of times, God is always there to lift us up and hold us in the palm of His hand.
“Praise You in This Storm” by Casting Crowns
Song year: 2005
The song’s lyrics express the idea that praise and worship can bring comfort and peace during a storm and that God is always present and in control, no matter what life brings. At a Christian funeral, “Praise You In This Storm” can provide hope and comfort to mourners, reminding them of God’s faithfulness and love even in the face of loss.
“Redeemed” by Big Daddy Weave
Song year: 2012
“Redeemed” by Big Daddy Weave is a powerful and uplifting Christian song that is often played at religious events, including funerals. The song celebrates the idea of redemption and the power of God’s love to transform lives. The song’s lyrics express that no matter what we have done or where we have been, God’s love is always there to bring us back to Him.
“Save a Place for Me” by Matthew West
Song year: 2008
Christian singer-songwriter Matthew West expresses a longing for the afterlife and comfort in reuniting with loved ones who have passed away. The lyrics express the singer’s sadness and pain over the loss and hope for a future reunion in heaven. The chorus asks for a place to be saved for the singer in heaven, asking for grace and comfort until they reach that place.
“Scars in Heaven” by Casting Crowns
Song year: 2022
“Scars in Heaven” by Casting Crowns is a heartbreaking song that speaks of the beauty of our scars and how they connect us with our loved ones who have passed on. This song is a fantastic choice for a Christian funeral as it brings consolation and hope to those mourning, reminding them that their loved one’s memories will always be with them.
“So Will I” by Hillsong United
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h77UYU84VOI
Song year: 2017
The praise song “So Will I” by Hillsong United is an inspiring declaration of faith in God. This hymn is fitting for a Christian funeral since it reminds mourners that God is with them in their time of need.
“Somewhere, Somehow” by Amy Grant & Michael W. Smith
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gya6HA6wq7g
Song year: 1992
Amy Grant and Michael W. Smith’s song “Somewhere, Somehow” is a soothing ballad about overcoming adversity and achieving inner peace. This song is a fantastic choice for a Christian funeral since it delivers a message of consolation and hope, telling people grieving that they can find peace and strength through their trust in God.
“The Old Rugged Cross” by Alan Jackson
Song year: 2006
One of the most well-known gospel songs ever written, “The Old Rugged Cross” by Alan Jackson, is a moving ode to Jesus’ death on the cross. This song brings hope and encouragement to those mourning, reminding them of the final triumph that Jesus gained for us through His death and resurrection.
“There You’ll Be” by Faith Hill
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h77UYU84VOI
Song year: 2001
“There You’ll Be” by Faith Hill is a poignant ballad that tells of the love and comfort that awaits us in paradise. This song is a fantastic choice for a Christian funeral as it brings consolation to those mourning, reminding them that their loved one is now in peace and love.
“Thy Will” by Hillary Scott & The Scott Family
Song year: 2016
“Thy Will” by Hillary Scott & The Scott Family is a poignant song that speaks of surrendering our will to God’s purpose for our life. You can’t go wrong with this hymn during a Christian funeral; it will provide solace to the mourners by reminding them that their loved one’s life was lived according to God’s perfect design and that they are at rest in heaven.
“Till We Meet Again” by Kirk Franklin
Song year: 1993
“Till We Meet Again” by Kirk Franklin is a gospel song about reuniting with loved ones in paradise. This song is an excellent choice for Christian service as it brings hope and peace, reminding people in mourning that they will see their loved ones again someday.
“Welcome Home” by Michael W. Smith
Song year: 2010
“Welcome Home” is a worship song that expresses the longing for heaven and the ultimate reunion with Jesus. The lyrics describe the beauty of heaven and how it is the final destination for all believers. The song emphasizes that heaven is a place of peace, rest, joy, and the ultimate home for all of God’s children.
“What a Day That Will Be” by Jim Hill
Song year: 2008
This popular gospel song, written by Jim Hill, expresses the hope and joy of the believer in the future arrival of the Lord Jesus Christ. The lyrics describe the transformation of the believer and the physical world in the presence of the Lord. The song speaks of the reunion of believers with their loved ones who have gone on before them and the end of sorrow, pain, and death.
“Who Am I” by Casting Crowns
Song year: 2003
Casting Crowns’ “Who Am I” is a touching love song that affirms our status as God’s children. You can’t go wrong with this hymn at a Christian funeral; it will provide solace to the mourners by reminding them of their status as God’s precious children and the promise of an eternal reunion with their departed loved one.
“You Raise Me Up” by Josh Groban
Song year: 2003
“You Raise Me Up” by Josh Groban is a beautiful song that tells of the hope and strength we receive from God. This song is a good choice for a Christian memorial service since it brings comfort and encouragement to those mourning, reminding them of the love and power of God.
“Rock of Ages” by Aretha Franklin
Song year: 2017
“Rock of Ages” is a traditional Christian hymn written by Augustus Toplady in 1763. Aretha Franklin’s version of the song is a gospel-style rendition that emphasizes the power and strength of God’s love and invites listeners to come to Him for comfort and protection. The hymn affirms God is unchanging and always present, even in difficult times and suffering.
Best Christian Funeral Songs, Final Thoughts
Christian funeral songs serve as a source of comfort and hope during difficult times. The lyrics of these songs remind us of the promise of eternal life and the love of God. They also offer a meaningful tribute to the person who has passed away.
Whether a classic hymn or a contemporary worship song, music can touch our hearts and bring us together as we grieve and celebrate the life of the person who has passed.