So, you want to learn how to play worship guitar, but you’re not quite sure where to start or which songs are the best ones to learn first?

Not to worry — in this post, we’ll walk you through the top 10 songs we recommend you get started with, why we recommend them and even give you some basic pointers on each one.

Here’s something to keep in mind, though: The very “best” beginner worship song is the one that inspires and motivates you to keep playing.

If you don’t see your favorite song on this list, don’t worry! Give it a try anyway! But don’t get discouraged. If the one you want to learn is too hard for now, come back to this list, work on your chops, and you’ll be able to play it in no time 🙂

1. “Amazing Grace” (Traditional)

Chords: G, C, D, Em

Amazing Grace has a very simple melody and is universally known.

I think that is one of the reasons God “inspired” John Newton to write it. Think about it: A song that so clearly proclaims the gospel message, and yet is so simple that it is even played and taught in many secular (non-worship) settings!

This is a fantastic song to learn that will be immediately recognizable to all who hear it, and can make for a “quick win” when it comes to learning the guitar.

2. “Here I Am to Worship” by Tim Hughes

Chords: G, D, A, Em, C

This song has a very special place in my heart, as it was one of the very first praise and worship songs I remember hearing.

It is very recognizable and truly a modern classic. This song has very simple chord progressions, and yet, they change up at various points throughout the song, making it sound very dynamic.

This one is FUN to play and will have you leading campfire sing-a-longs in no time!

3. “Open the Eyes of My Heart” by Paul Baloche

Chords: E, Bsus, A9

This song is repetitive and easy to remember and has rhythms and grooves that — as a drummer — I find very satisfying.

It’s a fun one on the guitar as well, because the verses are a bit more open and have some breathing room, but the chorus transitions into a fun, hard-driving rhythm.

4. “How Great Is Our God” by Chris Tomlin

Chords: G, Em, C, D

This is one of those “anthem” songs that is hard to beat. The words come straight from the Scriptures (a little-known feature of Chris Tomlin’s music).

Watch out specifically for the bridge on this one (the “name above all names”) part. Even though the music doesn’t change music, the vocal is different.

And when that part “hits” during worship service, it’s one of my very favorite moments.

5. “Lord, I Lift Your Name On High” by Rick Founds

Chords: G, C, D, Em

This one truly takes it WAY back. It’s upbeat and joyful with a simple chorus.

One big reason I love the song is because it demonstrates something about God most people don’t think about: Logic. There’s an unbroken string of redemption praised in this song (heaven to earth, earth to the cross, etc).

The simplicity of the music paired with the logical movement of the lyrics makes this a magical and memorable song.

6. “10,000 Reasons (Bless the Lord)” by Matt Redman

Chords: C, G, D, Em

10,000 Reasons is a fantastic song for beginner guitarists because of its slow pace and easy transitions between chords.

It uses a lot of minor chord movements, which is really cool because it makes the song sound a little more complex than it really is.

That makes it motivating to learn and play, and I think you’ll have a lot of fun with this one.

7. “Mighty to Save” by Hillsong United

Chords: G, C, Em, D

Passionate and motivating, with a straightforward progression, “Mighty to Save” has a driving rhythm that makes it an exciting song to play!

And while it’s great on the guitar, I have to admit, this is a really fun one to play on the bass as well. It gives you opportunities to move and explore the instrument while staying out of the way of the rest of the music.

8. “Come, Now Is the Time to Worship” by Brian Doerksen

Chords: D, A, G, Em

With a repetitive chorus that makes it easy to sing along, this song has many of the same vibes as “Open the Eyes…” discussed earlier.

This is a great one to learn because it introduces some complexity to your learning. There are some interesting (though optional) timing patterns in this song that can be a great bridge into more advanced playing.

9. “Your Grace Is Enough” by Chris Tomlin

Chords: G, C, Em, D

This song is celebratory and offers an easy-going rhythm that just “feels” good.

The song has a middle-of-the-road tempo that will stretch you just a little as you continue into more advanced learning.

Beyond being super fun and educational to play, it’s just a fantastic song that I believe you will really enjoy.

10. “This Is the Day” (Traditional)

Chords: D, G, A7

This final song is upbeat and familiar to many who grew up in church. Personally, I think we should sing some of the old hymns more than we do.

I particularly love this song because of how flexible it is. You can learn how to play this song in a variety of styles and speeds and make it your own.

Coming from the world of bluegrass music, I like it when this one gets upbeat and driving. That makes it a lot of fun.

So, Where Should You Start?

This is a great question—one that I have been asking myself as I was writing and thinking through these songs so that I could give you the very best answer.

As it often goes with stuff like this, though, there isn’t a “right” answer! The good news is, I think there are a few general guidelines that could help.

First, start with a song that you find most familiar. If you don’t know a song all that well, it is more difficult to get it down. If you’re using the Nashville Numbers System like we teach, this does get a lot easier, but it still helps to know the song.

If you know them all reasonably well, then second, I would say start with the one that gets you the most excited! Going back to the very beginning of this post, I think the very best songs to learn are those that get you PUMPED to keep learning your instrument.

Third and finally, I would consider leaning towards the ones you find the most challenging. That might sound counterintuitive, but most of us love a good challenge, and if you can demonstrate that you’ve “got this” and get some quick wins, it will motivate you to stick with it.

Of course, if you find yourself needing help learning the technique or if you want to use a system that will fast-track your learning (big time), consider joining us here at Worship By Numbers.

Our courses are comprehensive and we are building a growing library of instruments and songs. While we’re growing, our prices are low, so become a member today to stay grandfathered in for the long term.

We can’t wait to help you learn how to worship Jesus through song.