Believers Seek Solace in the Words of the Holy Bible

Times of uncertainty often occurs when it is least expected. Searching for solace is human nature, and using the internet seems to be a favorite place to look.

Even with reports indicating there is a strong surge of increased atheism, especially among millennials, searches for the Word the God have maintained a steady pace.

The American Atheists website reports 26 percent of all Americans do not believe in anything but humanity. and nearly 40 percent of those under the age of 30 claim to be “non-religious.”

Atheists do not allow themselves the freedom to choose faith. Without faith, where do atheists turn when humanity lets them down again and again? For Christians, faith in Jesus Christ sustains them during good and bad times.

Apps and websites dedicated to the Bible are abundant. There are sites for users to study, to read, locate verses, read inspiring stories, and search for solace. Readers will find Bible on Demand sites like Bible Hub, Bible Study Tools, Bible Gateway, A Bible Verse a Day, First 15 daily devotional, and so many more.

One of the oldest is Bible Gateway. The site celebrated its 25th Anniversary in August 2018. Its news release announcing the silver anniversary states the site has been viewed more than 14 billion times using over a billion devices. There are 200 versions of the Bible available in at least 70 languages.

Johnathan Peterson, the site’s content manager, reports the top-10 keyword searches were — in order:

1. Love
2. Peace
3. Faith
4. Hope
5. Joy
6. Heart
7. Prayer
8. Wisdom
9. Holy Spirit
10. Grace

The No. 1 most searched verse was John 3:16;

For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whosoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.

The 10th was Ephesians 6:10-18. Here are verses 10-12;

_[10]Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. _[11]Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. _[12]For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.

Words of guidance, reassurance, and comfort are in abundance in the Bible. Here readers will find God’s desire for their lives, His expectations, and wisdom bundled up with love. John 3:16 sums up these ideas in 24 words.

Apostle Paul is addressing the Philippian believers when he explains contentment even though he was writing them from prison. Chapter 4, verses 11 and 12;

_[11]I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. _[12]I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.
In these verses, Paul explains there is a secret to finding solace. Contentment comes with being at peace with the present circumstances no matter where one is in their life.

The Word of God is where a person would find Biblical comfort times of sorrow, misfortune, or trouble. The verses will bring alleviation of distress or discomfort.

Written by Cathy Milne

Sources:

Bible Gateway: On 25th Anniversary, Bible Gateway Has Been Viewed More Than 14 Billion Times
American Atheists: We’re fighting to protect real religious freedom
Christianity Today: Bible on Demand: What 160 Million People Searched Scripture For in 2015

Featured and Top Image Courtesy of Annie_Daniella’s Flickr Page – Creative Commons License