Kenyan readers turned to Scripture in unprecedented numbers in 2025, mirroring a global surge in Bible engagement that reached historic levels during the first ever Global Bible Month in November.
Data released by YouVersion, creator of the world’s most downloaded Bible app with more than 1 billion installs worldwide, shows that Isaiah 41:10 was the most engaged with verse of the year, both globally and in Kenya. It is the fourth time in six years that the verse has taken the top position, underlining a sustained search for reassurance, strength and hope during uncertain times.
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10.
In Swahili, the verse resonated just as strongly:
“Basi, usiogope, mimi nipo pamoja nawe. Usifadhaike, mimi ni Mungu wako. Nitakuimarisha na kukusaidia; nitakulinda kwa mkono wangu wa ushindi.” Isaya 41:10.
According to YouVersion Founder and Chief Executive Officer Bobby Gruenewald, the enduring popularity of the verse reflects a universal human need. He said people continue to return to it because it speaks directly to fear, anxiety and the assurance that they are not alone.
The momentum built steadily throughout the year and peaked during Global Bible Month in November. Every Sunday in November ranked among the highest days for Bible engagement in the platform’s history. The first Sunday of the month set an all time record, with more than 19 million people opening the app in a single day.
More than 2.6 million people worldwide joined the 30 Day Bible Challenge during the month. Daily Bible use increased by 19 percent compared with November 2024, showing that the initiative encouraged lasting habits rather than short term interest.
The strong November performance capped a year of exceptional growth. On January 1 alone, more than 3 million people subscribed to one year Bible plans, an 18 percent increase compared with 2024. Easter Sunday later became the biggest day of the year for Bible engagement, with nearly 19 million people engaging with Scripture across YouVersion’s family of apps.
Sub Saharan Africa recorded a 27 percent increase in daily Bible use in 2025, one of the strongest growth rates globally. North Africa, the Middle East and Central Asia posted a 33 percent increase, while North America grew by 14 percent.
In Kenya, search trends on the app reflected everyday concerns and spiritual questions. The top search terms were love, hope, anxiety, Psalm 91, peace, healing, Psalms 91, proverbs, anger and Isaiah. Alongside these searches, Isaiah 41:10 consistently emerged as the most read and shared verse in the country.
Globally, other highly engaged verses included Jeremiah 29:11 and Romans 12:2. On average, every second sees 40 Bible plan days completed and 112 verses highlighted, bookmarked or noted, pointing to active and sustained engagement rather than casual reading.
Gruenewald said the numbers point to lives and communities being shaped by Scripture. He added that the habits formed during Global Bible Month are expected to deepen further in 2026, extending their impact beyond individuals to families and communities, including across Kenya.