Why Christian Living Titles Are on the Rise

Move over, doom-scrolling—readers are reaching for devotionals and study guides in record numbers. In the first half of 2024, print sales of religious books jumped 12.1% over the same period in 2023, making religion the best-performing adult nonfiction category—while total print sales across all genres actually dipped 0.4% . In other words, faith-fuelled nonfiction is the only part of the market that’s powering ahead, and self-publishers are perfectly poised to ride this wave.

Bible Studies & Curriculum Lead the Charge

If you thought only new releases could drive growth, think again. HarperCollins Christian Publishing—home to Zondervan and Thomas Nelson—saw its Bible studies and curriculum titles soar 20% year-over-year. Even more telling: 84% of their sales in late 2024 came from backlist titles, proving that once you earn readers’ trust, they’ll come back again and again .

You don’t need to reinvent the wheel—or the devotional—every season. A timeless study guide, beautifully presented, will keep selling long past launch week.

The Bible Boom: Beyond Just Studies

It’s not just curriculum. Overall Bible sales in the U.S. surged 22% through October 2024, handily outpacing the sub-1% growth of the broader print market . From graphic-novel Bibles to “She Reads Truth” editions, first-time buyers and seasoned readers alike are snapping up Scripture in every format.

Who knew that the Bible would be the year’s biggest “bestseller”? (Well, we did—because faith never goes out of style.)

The Gen Z Factor: Young, Hungry, Curious

Forget stereotypes: Gen Z isn’t too cool for church—it’s hungry for meaning. Studies show this cohort is half as likely to identify as atheist compared to older generations, and they’re gravitating toward “Youth Editions” with infographics, guided journaling space, and QR-code video devotionals . In fact, faith-driven content on TikTok and Instagram (#BibleStudyTok, anyone?) is lighting the spark—and print keeps that flame burning.

When your audience is scrolling for memes and ending up in Matthew—prayerfully plotting their next purchase—give them the book they’ll actually read.

What’s Behind the Surge?

1. Digital Discovery Meets Print Depth

Social media communities and micro-influencers (think #BibleStudyTok or “Daily Devotions” reels) create buzz, but readers still crave the tactile thrill of a beautifully bound devotional on their nightstand. Publishers Weekly execs confirm that digital word-of-mouth is the wind in the sails—but print is the ship .

2. Hybrid Learning Models

Small groups and churches are blending video streaming with companion workbooks—opening up opportunities for self-publishers to package interactive devotional kits. HarperChristian Resources alone offers dozens of online Bible studies alongside print guides, proving that multimedia bundles are a hit .

3. Faith in Turbulent Times

Economic uncertainty, global unrest, and mental-health struggles have readers searching for “soul care” tools. From anxiety-soothing devotionals to leadership guides rooted in biblical truth, faith-based nonfiction is serving as affordable, accessible therapy for millions .

What This Means for You, The Indie Author

• Double-down on Devotionals: A well-crafted 30-day devotional or topic-specific study (e.g., “Devotions for Overwhelmed Moms”) can become a backlist hero.

• Experiment with Formats: Add QR-code links to short video reflections or audio versions—Gen Z and Boomers alike love that hybrid vibe.

• Join the Awards Circuit: Submit your best work to the Christian Indie Publishing Association’s 2025 awards—winners get featured in newsletters and church-store displays.

• Leverage AI & Analytics: Use AI-driven editing tools to tighten your manuscript, and analytics dashboards to target ads where your audience hangs out most.

Ready to Claim Your Slice of the Boom?

Whether you’re drafting your first devotional, planning a small-group curriculum, or simply refining your next Bible study, now’s the moment to lean in. The stats don’t lie: Christian living books are booming, and readers are hungry for fresh voices that marry depth with daily application.

Let's Connect! Drop a comment below, or grab our free Get Started Guide if you want help crafting your next faith-fueled title—and let’s turn that calling into a book that moves souls (and sticks around for years).