Learn and practice a few basic chords. These are all you need to know to get started playing southern gospel on the guitar. G, E minor, C and D chords are chords for the southern gospel standard "Amazing Grace," as well as many more songs in the southern gospel genre. You can purchase a guitar chord dictionary that will help you put these chords and others together. You can also find them for free online. Getting a grasp on chords is an important part of playing gospel with a southern flavor.
Practice your first simple chords without worrying about putting them to a song. Once you've mastered each chord shape and how to move between them smoothly, apply them to a familiar melody such as "Amazing Grace" and sing along as you strum. Don't worry about rhythm yet. Get familiar with changing the chords at the right time during the song. You can do this by playing along with the "Amazing Grace" sheet music. (available online for free).
Experiment with a more complex strumming rhythm once you've gotten accustomed to switching chords properly within the song. Your right hand controls the rhythm. Vary the way you move your right hand. Try alternating up and down strum patterns on the chords. Try adding a stronger accent on the first strum of every chord change. This is how you develop your own sound and style. Many people have played "Amazing Grace." You can experiment and make it your own.
Play as much southern gospel sheet music as you can. You can purchase gospel guitar music books at music or book stores. You can also find quite a bit online free of charge. Playing is the best way to develop your skills and your own style. Once you've worked out how to do a simple song like "Amazing Grace," apply those same learning and practicing techniques on other southern gospel favorites.