American Bible Society just released the third chapter of the State of the Bible: USA 2022 report entitled, “Better Living Through Bible Reading.” In this chapter, we explore what effect the Bible has on well-being. We also learn how we can pray for fellow Americans to flourish despite the unique challenges of the past couple of years.

Bible Engagement and Flourishing

Americans are experiencing significant levels of stress due to the ongoing pandemic, economic inflation, racial and social tensions, and other disruptions. But did you know that Scripture Engaged people are now feeling less stress than others do.

This year’s survey results reveal that when people engage with Scripture, they flourish at a higher level than those who do not. Using Harvard’s Human Flourishing Index—which measures Human Flourishing across six essential domains—the State of the Bible team discovered that Americans who consistently read and apply the Bible experience:

• 19% higher levels of Human Flourishing
• 32% lower levels of stress symptoms
• 17% higher levels of hope

According to the report, “The Bible stimulates growth, often leads to positive social interaction with a church community, and promotes personal disciplines of prayer and acts of kindness. All of this helps people live better.”

The Bible makes a difference!

How You Can Pray

Our hope is that people across America will connect with the timeless truths and hope found in God’s Word so that they may live better lives. We invite you to join us as we pray the following:

• Pray that people will nurture their relationship with God by daily engaging with Scripture and being part of a healthy church community.
• Pray that churches will find creative solutions to promote Scripture Engagement among the highly stressed people, which the report indicates are Gen Z, big city populations, and the Hispanic community.
• Pray that this research will help inform churches and ministers across America in understanding how best to minister to the people they serve.