Regular Bible reading reduces stress, study finds

Reading the Bible. Photo: oakridgecommunity

The American Bible Society has published the results of a study showing that regular Bible reading has a positive impact on mental health and lifestyle, according to the U.S. Christian website Crosswalk.

Americans who had read the Bible during the week prior to the survey reported significantly lower levels of stress, anxiety, and loneliness, while simultaneously demonstrating higher levels of hope and confidence.

The study also found that regular Bible readers are more physically active, socially engaged, and involved in volunteering. For instance, 71% of consistent Bible readers engaged in physical activity in the previous week, compared to 65% among those who do not read the Bible.

“In fact, the Bible's connection to lower stress, anxiety, and loneliness is stronger than that of meditation, spending time with a friend, or even exercise. Those who keep coming back to Scripture find reassurance in stressful times, hope for the future, and a growing relationship with the God who knows them intimately and loves them deeply,” said John Farquhar Plake, Director of Ministry Intelligence at the American Bible Society.

The survey was conducted in January 2025 among 2,656 U.S. adults as part of the annual State of the Bible project.

As previously reported by the UOJ, many Ukrainians have also found that their faith strengthens amid times of crisis.

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