In the radio and playist world Worship and CCM songs are merging more than ever. For a long time the two styles of Christian Music had separate functions and infrastructures, but recently there have been quite a bit of cross-over. Although the following points are generalities, for those of you who are Christian Music Creators there are still some distinctions worth noting...
Drums
Drums in worship songs are typically either played or programmed to capture a more "live," "dynamic," and "human" feel. While CCM songs are often programmed (think snaps, claps, and boom-bap) to follow a more mainstream pop feel. Currently, however CCM drums are increasingly being played and programmed to feel a little more live and soulful.
Vocals
Lead Vocals on Worship recordings typically have more emphasis on being “singable” for church settings, while CCM vocals will focus more on pop hooks and vibes. Also, worship vocals will often be blended with live or simulated crowds to capture a sense of "congregational" participation. While CCM songs are focused more on the artist and the vocal performance. Either way, the artist's vocal tone and uniqueness will still be an important factor.
Lyrical Content
Lyrics used in worship tend to be more vertically focused. CCM lyrics tend to be more focused on offering a meaningful “take-away” or encouragement for the listener.
Instruments In General
While I would say the following is less true than in previous times, it's still the common practice. Worship songs are more likely produced with instruments and parts you’d find church volunteers are able to play. CCM songs more closely follow the trends of mainstream music and are often played by more proficient players without as much consideration for who will be replicating the parts in volunteer settings.
Dynamics & Length
In general, the dynamics of worship songs are more free-flow-y than CCM, and space is often approached differently between two styles. For example, worship songs will often approach "space" as rich, atmospheric pads building in intensity over the course of the song. While CCM songs often approach "space" by the use of "dead space" between rhythmic phrases and will have more pop-informed, explosive choruses and hooks. Worship songs are often longer than 4 or 5 minutes. While CCM tends to still follow the traditional radio length of under 3 to 3 1/2 minutes.