Quarantine is the perfect time to order books online and tackle your reading list!
At least, that’s what many self-help articles are saying.
But they’re not reporting on what is actually proving to be one of the most-ordered books right now – the Bible.
As many people are isolated in their homes during the current pandemic, reading is becoming a popular activity once more.
And with the advent of online shopping, it’s easier than ever before to get books in your home.
People around the country are ordering large numbers of books to occupy their quarantined days.
It’s not just secular book sales that are climbing to record highs. In fact, as people find themselves with spare time and an urge to read, sales of the Holy Bible are spiking across the country!
Several Bible publishing companies have expressed excitement about the trend of increasing Bible sales.
“In this life-altering and unprecedented pandemic, people are looking for hope and restoration,” said Brian Chung, the co-founder and business director of Alabaster Co.
Alabaster Co. publishes beautiful editions of individual books of the Bible, coupling the timeless Word of God with striking images meant to inspire readers to greater awe and worship.
Since the pandemic began, the company has seen an increase of 143 percent in sales compared to the numbers from last year at this time!
Chung believes that more and more people are finding themselves in need of that sense of worship and reminder of God’s continued presence in today’s hard times.
“We believe people are buying Bibles because there’s a longing to connect with God, find meaning, and experience peace,” he added.
“Even amidst suffering and financial hardship we’ve continued to see people engage with Alabaster by utilizing our free resources and purchasing Bibles and encouraging gifts for loved ones.”
In response to the increase in sales, Alabaster has decided to donate 100% of the proceeds from one of their most popular books, All That Is Made, to Feeding America’s COVID-19 response fund.
Alabaster isn’t the only Bible publisher seeing greater sales. Tyndale House Publishers reported significant increases in sales of Bibles and Bible study materials as well.
Tyndale’s Life Application Study Bible is in especially high demand right now as Americans dig deeper into the Word of God for guidance.
“It’s not surprising that people turn to the comfort and clarity of the Bible in times of trouble and uncertainty,” noted Jim Jewell, the communications director of Tyndale House Publishers.
“We have been seeing this at Tyndale House during the last month, with strong Bible sales and engagement on our social media platforms.”
Americans are hungry for the Word of God as they haven’t been for years, seeking answers and reassurances in this time of crisis.
“We believe this is no accident, as people often go to the Bible as a source of hope in times of crisis and uncertainty,” added Ben Mandrell, the CEO of Lifeway Christian Resources.
Lifeway Christian Resources, a leading publisher of Bibles and other Christian literature, recently reported a 62 percent increase in business compared to this time last year.
Mandrell and his coworkers are greatly encouraged to know that more Americans are putting God’s Word into their minds and hearts, and they agree that the Bible is uniquely comforting in its promises.
“The Bible, as God’s words to use, is a reminder that He doesn’t leave us to walk through difficult times alone.”
Although a majority of Americans own Bibles, few citizens admit to actually reading them regularly. That could be changing due to the current crisis as individuals and families seek solace in the pages of Scripture.
More Americans, even those who call themselves “secular” or identify as atheists, are also turning to prayer and online churches in the wake of COVID-19’s spread.
In many ways, it seems that the nation is on the verge of a spiritual revival! This is encouraging news in the midst of troubling times.
Pray that our neighbors, friends, and family members will continue to seek wisdom and comfort from God’s Word.
Additionally, consider supporting Bible publishers and their ministry efforts during this time if you’re able! Or just take the opportunity to purchase a new resource for yourself or a friend.