Before I add today’s ELSI Money Quote of the Day, I want to share a revelation I had this morning while in quiet contemplation.
I was thinking it would be nice to post a special money quote each Sunday that had its roots in spiritual faith.
An hour or so later, I was sitting at my desk with a morning news show on low volume, when I was soon attracted to an interview the host was having with Cardinal Nolan of St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City.
The Cardinal shared an interesting fact; Bible and spiritual book sales are notably on the rise.
In fact, according to a December 1, 2024 article in the Wall Street Journal, Bible sales in the U.S. alone have experienced a dramatic increase in the past year.
As of October 2024, Bible sales have risen by 22% compared to the same period in the previous year. That is a significant contrast to the less than 1% growth in overall print book sales during the same period.
Several theories have been proposed to explain this surge:
1. People Seeking Solace Amid Uncertainty: Economic challenges, geopolitical conflicts, and political uncertainties have led many individuals to turn to the Bible for comfort and guidance.
The Evangelical Christian Publishers Association notes that widespread anxiety has driven people toward Scripture in search of reassurance.
2. Diverse and Innovative Editions: Publishers have introduced various Bible formats, including novels, audiobooks, and specialty editions, to cater to different preferences.
In fact, although I have had several Bibles in my past, and try to read it often, I have recently begun reading a children’s Bible for clarity and better understanding! It works, and I highly recommend it, especially if this is your first deep dive into this Great Book.
Although, personally, I do not believe in altering what is God’s good Word precisely, these innovative versions mentioned above have attracted first-time buyers and younger demographics, such as Generation Z.
3. Influence of Public Figures: Celebrities and influencers openly discussing their faith have sparked interest in the Bible among their followers, contributing to increased sales.
4. Enhanced Accessibility: The availability of Bibles through various retail channels, including online platforms like Amazon and mainstream bookstores, has made it easier for people to purchase them.
5. Cultural and Spiritual Exploration: Amid a secularizing society, there remains a segment of the population interested in exploring spiritual texts, leading to sustained and growing engagement with the Bible.
These factors have collectively contributed to the rising trend in Bible sales, reflecting a complex interplay of societal, cultural, and individual influences.
– Wall Street Journal
And now, the ELSI Spiritual Money Quote of the Day Note: On first glance, this may not seem like it has to do with money until you think about it deeply…
“Give us this day our daily bread.” – Matthew 6:11
What the verse means:
The 11th verse in the 6th chapter of Matthew, the 1st book of the New Testament, states “Give us this day our daily bread,” and is part of the Lord’s Prayer. It also appears in another book of the Gospel, Luke, Chapter 11, verse 3, and carries both literal and spiritual meanings:
1. Literal Meaning: It expresses a request for God to provide for our basic physical needs, such as food, shelter, and sustenance, on a daily basis.
The Prayer acknowledges dependence on God as the provider of life’s essentials.
2. Spiritual Meaning:
a. Spiritual Nourishment: Bread is also a metaphor for spiritual sustenance. Christians interpret this as asking God to nourish their souls with His Word (often referred to as “The Bread of Life.”
b. Faith in God’s Provision: It teaches reliance on God for daily needs rather than worrying about the future, emphasizing trust in God’s continuous care.
This verse invites believers to maintain a humble and trusting relationship with God, recognizing their dependence on Him for both physical and spiritual sustenance.
