How Reading the Bible Lowers Anxiety, According To Research
What I Learned From John Plake About Bible Engagement in America
What if I told you there’s hard data proving the Bible is changing lives right now — not someday, not in theory, but measurably, scientifically, today? Dr. John Plake from the American Bible Society joins me to unpack the research behind Bible engagement and mental health. Honestly, it left me smiling.
Dr. Plake leads the State of the Bible study—the longest-running research on how Americans engage with Scripture—and what he’s found is genuinely hopeful. People who are deeply engaged with the Bible show lower anxiety, lower traumatic stress, and higher hope than those who aren’t. Harvard’s Human Flourishing Study confirms it. Gen Zers, who statistically struggle the most with anxiety and depression, look completely different when they’re Scripture-engaged — like they’ve unlocked something their peers haven’t found yet.
We also dig into the real barrier holding people back: it’s not desire, it’s guidance. Millions of people want to read the Bible but don’t know where to start, what translation to pick, or how to make sense of it. Dr. Plake breaks down practical first steps—from finding the right translation to using audio and video to build a consistent habit—so we can turn curiosity into a life-giving relationship with Scripture. If you’ve ever picked up a Bible and felt lost, this episode is your on-ramp.
Who is John?
Dr. John Plake serves as the Chief Innovation Officer at the American Bible Society. Bridging the intersection of advanced social science, data analytics, and pastoral leadership, Plake provides critical clarity on rapidly shifting cultural dynamics. His research is highly relevant as sociologists and faith leaders scramble to understand a surprising post-pandemic rebound in religious curiosity among younger, secular demographics.