Step 4. In the Google App settings, tap on the ‘Force Stop‘ option.
Step 5. Exit the settings and use the Google Search widget or the Google search option to restart the service.
In order to avoid getting such an experience in the future, ensure that you operate your phone with a stable internet connection, and ensure that you have updated the apps and OS on your phone to the latest version. Bugs sometimes pop up due to pending updates, so its better to stay updated than deal with these nagging issues.