New Study Links Weekly Bible Reading to Lower Anxiety, Greater Hope

JULY 25, 2025 — A new report from the American Bible Society reveals that Americans who read the Bible weekly experience significantly lower levels of stress and anxiety - and greater feelings of hope - than those who do not.

The findings, published in the latest State of the Bible report, also show that Bible readers also tend to report stronger habits of self-care, including increased exercise, social connection, and volunteering.

Surveying more than 2,600 U.S. adults this January, researchers found that 71% of regular Bible readers exercised in the past week compared to 65% of those who rarely or never read Scripture. They were also more likely to spend time with friends (73% vs. 66% national average) and volunteer in their communities (27% vs. 17%). Among those who rarely or never read their Bibles, 13 % say they've volunteered in their community. 

“The Bible’s connection to lower stress, anxiety, and loneliness is stronger than that of meditation, spending time with a friend, or even exercise,” said Dr. John Farquhar Plake, editor-in-chief of the State of the Bible series. “Those who keep returning 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."