Hard Print vs Digital.

In today’s fast-paced digital world, where content often feels overwhelming and fleeting, real and lasting connections matter more than ever. This is why paper books hold such importance—they offer something tangible and enduring in a time when everything seems to move too quickly.

Just a few days ago, I discovered that my favourite Bible app, Bible Gateway, has been discontinued in the UK and EU, according to online sources. When I tried to log in, I couldn’t access my account, which suddenly made sense of an email I had received from the organisation about refunding my monthly subscription. The company explained that they are withdrawing their services in these regions, though the reasons behind this decision remain unclear.

If you don’t already own a physical Bible, now is the time to get one. It’s unsettling to think that, with just one decision or one swipe, access to digital Bibles could be taken away from countless people—especially if the only copy they have is on their phone. I never want anyone or anything to have the power to limit my access to the Word of God. I’m not saying this is definitely where things are headed, but I’m also not saying it couldn’t happen. That’s why I believe it’s so important to have a physical, tangible Bible. I’m grateful that I do.

And as we look ahead, I want to strongly encourage you not to rely solely on technology, with all its flaws and uncertainties. As we move toward 2026, consider investing in a hard copy of the Bible. Unlike reading on a phone or tablet, a printed Bible is free from constant notifications, alerts, and distractions that can pull your focus away. With a hard copy in your hands, you can engage with God’s Word in a deeper, uninterrupted way—no matter what changes may come.

Of course, it’s very convenient to have the Word of God on our phones or other devices—we can access it quickly and easily, and I use it often myself. There’s certainly a time and place for digital tools. But even with all their advantages, I believe a hard copy Bible is still far superior. In fact, I’d like to share with you a number of reasons why I believe every believer should own and regularly use a physical Bible.

Six Reasons Why a Hard Copy Bible Is Superior

1.     Uninterrupted Focus: Phones and tablets are full of distractions—notifications, messages, and alerts that can interrupt your reading. A physical Bible allows you to engage with God’s Word without constant digital noise.

2.     Lasting Access: Apps and online platforms can be removed, restricted, or shut down overnight. A printed Bible can’t be deleted or taken away with the swipe of a finger.

3.     Spiritual Weight: Holding a Bible in your hands carries a sense of reverence and significance. The physical presence of God’s Word reminds us of its authority and permanence.

4.     Legacy and Connection: A printed Bible can be marked with notes, prayers, and highlights, and passed down to future generations. It becomes a family treasure and a spiritual legacy in a way a phone app never can.

5.     Freedom from Control: With a physical Bible, you’re not dependent on software updates, subscriptions, or the decisions of tech companies. You have direct, unrestricted access to God’s Word.

6.     Encouragement to Slow Down: A hard copy Bible invites you to linger, meditate, and reflect—rather than skim or scroll. It helps cultivate a deeper and more prayerful reading of Scripture.

As we round up 2025, a year filled with upheavals, uncertainties, and strangeness, we must be honest: 2026 will not necessarily be easier. In fact, it may grow even more chaotic. The question is, what will we do? Where will we turn for stability and peace?

The only true source of peace in the coming season is found in the Scriptures. Hebrews 12:2 reminds us: “Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith. For the joy set before him, he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” When we fix our gaze on Him, we discover a secure future and a life filled with peace, joy, and strength—even in the midst of challenges. He is our present help, and He will perfect what He has begun in us.

And here’s something else to consider: if you carry a Bible with you—to work, to school, on a trip, or even on a plane—and you open the Word of God, something powerful happens. It almost always sparks a conversation. People notice. They recognise that you are a believer. In a world where faith is often hidden or kept private, I believe the time has come for us to stand boldly and declare by our actions and presence that we belong to Christ.

Jesus said in Matthew 5:14-16: “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

Someone may not approach you right away, and you might not end up in an instant Bible study. But simply by having your Bible visible, people will know who you are and what you believe. And when the time comes—whether they face a crisis, a deep question, or a searching moment in life—they’ll remember who to turn to.

This is why I believe hard-copy Bibles are not only far superior to digital devices but also essential. They keep us rooted, undistracted, and ready to be a visible witness for Christ in a world that desperately needs Him.

Most importantly, the light of a believer is meant to drive back the darkness of sin, hatred, and despair. Just as a city on a hill cannot be hidden, our faith should be evident and impactful. Hiding our light is like putting a lamp under a basket—rendering it useless. But when we live visibly as followers of Christ, we shine in a way that draws others to Him and brings glory to our Father in heaven.

Stay blessed.