6 Great Christian Songs for when you’re Depressed

Yesterday was a bad depression day. I was home alone, and I felt rubbish. After a while of feeling that way, I finally remembered to frame it in the Gospel. However, not a single Bible verse sprang to mind. I felt so bad that I couldn’t bring myself to pray. So I continued as I was for a few more minutes, but with the added burden of feeling guilty. Then I had a thought: Music.

Christian songs have a way of speaking into your heart when nothing else can get through. So I forced myself to make the effort of opening my Spotify playlist, and it took the edge off. The music slowly raised my gaze from internal self-pity towards our majestic creator.

So I thought I’d share a few of my favourite songs for days when I need uplifting:

This is the song that I see recommended most frequently for bad depression days and it’s not hard to see why. The lyrics of this song really understand both depression and Christ. The music always makes me emotional too.

Oh My Soul – Casting Crowns

Yes, I could make an entire list just of Casting Crowns songs, but I’ll stick to these two. While the above song appears to be a general favourite, this is my personal favourite song for bad days. And there are bonus points for the ballerina in the video!

Favourite lyrics: Can He keep me from going under? Oh my soul, you are not alone.

Because He Lives (Amen) – Matt Maher

Matt Maher did not specifically aim this song at people with depression (as far as I know!), but it describes the Gospel beautifully without feeling overly cheery. As the song progresses, it draws me into joy in Christ, and will hopefully do the same for you.

Favourite lyrics: I heard mercy call my name. He rolled the stone away.

When Peace Like a River – Horatio Spafford

(The below version is by Sovereign Grace Music)

I’m not sure it’s possible to know the story behind this song and then listen to it with a stony heart. After an awful year with his son’s death and losing much of his financial security, further tragedy struck Horatio Spafford. The ship carrying his wife and four daughters collided with another ship and all four children died. Horatio Spafford wrote this hymn on the same crossing, whilst travelling to join his wife. What great love and comfort he must have known from God in those tough days to write such powerful words.

Favourite lyrics: Christ has regarded my helpless estate and has shed His own blood for my soul.

I Stand Amazed – Charles Gabriel

(The below version is by Chris Tomlin)

Hymns have such rich lyrics, it is difficult to choose just one or two lines. This song makes my list because it always reaches my heart.

Favourite lyrics: He took my sin and my sorrow and made them His very own.

Even If – MercyMe

This song beautifully expresses trust in God even when our prayers are not answered the way we hope. They are amazing words to hear, but impossible for us to own for ourselves without the Holy Spirit and a whole lot of prayer!

Favourite lyrics: But even if you don’t [get rid of the bad] my hope is You alone.

Over to you!

What do you think of my choices? Have I missed any of your favourites? Let me know in the comments.