The American Bible Society has released its third chapter of its 12th annual “State of the Bible” report, showing that Americans who consistently read and apply the Bible have higher levels of hope and resilience.
“Our research continues to confirm that consistent Bible reading leads to hope and greater flourishing. Christians know that Jesus offers us full life; there’s no surprise here. But for those who are questioning their faith or even who need reassurance after a hard season, the data validates that applying the truths of Scripture leads to better health, better relationships, and a higher sense of purpose and meaning—all while bringing us closer to God,” said John Farquhar Plake, Ph.D. and Director of Ministry Intelligence for American Bible Society.
“To put it simply: the Bible’s message is not only spiritually transformative; it also transforms how we experience life on earth. There is restoration and healing in the Word of God, and we urgently need to point our hurting neighbors toward that life-changing truth.”
Chapter 3 of the “State of the Bible” found that in every category on the Human Flourishing Index, scores have jumped back to pre-pandemic levels or exceeded them. In 2021, those values fell.
The Human Flourishing Index looks at Happiness & Life Satisfaction, Mental & Physical Health, Meaning & Purpose, Character & Virtue, and Close Social Relationships.
Most notably, the Bible was revealed to be a key in affecting well-being. According to the study, scripture-engaged Americans reported levels of flourishing 19 percent more than those who do not read the Bible.
Among other findings, the report showed:
- Generation Z has the highest level of stress among all generation groups.
- Trauma sufferers who read the Bible experience higher levels of well-being than those who have no report of trauma and do not engage with the Bible.
- COVID-19-related stress is higher among people in cities than those in rural areas.
The American Bible Society is set to release six new chapters of the report by the end of the year.
Read the first three chapters at StateoftheBible.org.
Related:
Half of Americans Reported Reading the Bible in 2021, American Bible Society Survey Finds
Regular Bible Readers Faced Both More Stress, More Hope in 2020: State of the Bible Survey
Photo courtesy: ©Unsplash/Priscilla du Preez
Amanda Casanova is a writer living in Dallas, Texas. She has covered news for ChristianHeadlines.com since 2014. She has also contributed to The Houston Chronicle, U.S. News and World Report and IBelieve.com. She blogs at The Migraine Runner.