25 Best Hymns of All Time That Still Move Hearts Today

Hymns are the backbone of Christian worship. Written across centuries, these songs carry the weight of faith, suffering, triumph, and devotion. Here are 25 hymns that continue to move hearts today.

1. Amazing Grace (1772)

Written by: John Newton

A former slave trader turned pastor, Newton penned these words as a testimony of God's transforming power. "Amazing grace, how sweet the sound, that saved a wretch like me" remains the most recognized hymn in the English-speaking world.

2. How Great Thou Art (1885)

Written by: Carl Boberg

Originally a Swedish poem inspired by a thunderstorm, this hymn captures the awe of God's creation. Its powerful chorus has been sung by everyone from church choirs to Elvis Presley.

3. It Is Well with My Soul (1873)

Written by: Horatio Spafford

Written after Spafford lost his four daughters in a shipwreck, this hymn is perhaps the most powerful expression of faith in suffering ever written.

4. Great Is Thy Faithfulness (1923)

Written by: Thomas Chisholm

Based on Lamentations 3:22-23, this hymn celebrates God's unchanging faithfulness through every season of life.

5. Be Thou My Vision (6th Century)

Written by: Dallan Forgaill

One of the oldest hymns still sung today, this Irish prayer asks God to be the center of everything we see and do.

Why Hymns Still Matter

In an age of contemporary worship, hymns offer:

• Theological depth — centuries of doctrine distilled into verse
• Musical heritage — melodies tested by time
• Community connection — songs your grandparents sang too

Rediscover Classic Hymns

Explore our complete hymn lyrics collection or create a modern arrangement of a classic hymn with our AI tool.