The American Bible Society conducted a survey. They found that there was a correlation between engaging with the Bible and having lower anxiety levels. This correlation exists, they said, among all Americans “but is especially evident among Gen Z.” 

“Young people who identified as “Bible Engaged” had an anxiety score of 3.4, while people in that same group who identified as “Bible Disengaged” had an anxiety score of 7.4.”

They highlight that the data is drawn from a small sample size, but it still tells you something. The Bible teaches us about God, his providential power, and our purpose in the world. It is “an enduring source of comfort, hope, and light for a generation who is hurting.”*

They rightly note—as do I—that anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges, are complicated and personal. There are many contributing factors. We are unwise if we think that simply picking up a Bible more often will make all of your serious problems disappear. That would be naïve. 

But serious engagement with the Bible is most certainly “an enduring source of comfort, hope, and light…”

Psalm 119:105 is a very famous verse: “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” Without God’s word, our feet stumble. Without his light, the pathway before us is dark and uncertain. 

In the Bible, ‘light’ is often a metaphor for goodness, wisdom, and the very presence of God himself. 

Take your Bible seriously. Read it regularly. If there are young people under your care, ensure the same is happening with them. 

Life is hard. There are invisible pressures. We need to do what we can to be healthy and strong. Scripture is a part of a healthy spiritual diet, not only for your soul, but for your brain. 

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Notes:

—You’re invited! If you don’t have a church home for Christmas Eve and you’re close to Barrie, Ontario, join me at Westminster Church. We have two services: (a) The Super Family-Friendly Christmas Eve, and (b) The Traditional Candlelit Service. Click here to learn more. [Or click on the video below.]

–*Provided by ‘The Culture Translator’ in an email on November 8, 2024.

–The Up Devotional is published 5 days a week (Monday-Friday) and returns on December 23, 2024.

–Bible quotes are from the NIV.