Brought to you by Holy ScrollWhy Read the
Bible?
A 40,000-person study revealed the exact number of days per week that transforms behavior— and it's not what you'd expect.
93%
of Americans own a Bible.
Less than 20% read it weekly.
This disengagement leaves believers spiritually immature, vulnerable, and relying on their own strength.
“God wrote a Book; and He only wrote one. I wonder what we'll say to Him if He asks us, 'Did you read My Book?'”
— Woodrow Kroll
Researchers surveyed over 40,000 Americans to understand the relationship between scripture engagement and life outcomes.
What they discovered was remarkable.
Reading the Bible 1-3 times a week showed no statistical difference from not reading at all.
This is when transformation begins.
The Surge 📈
But wait, there's more...
The Shield 🛡️
Lower odds compared to those who read 0-3 days per week.
Four days can change everything.
Consistency beats intensity. Reading once a week deeply is less effective than engaging four times briefly.
Scripture engagement predicts behavior more reliably than church attendance or prayer alone.
It's never too late. These effects hold for new believers and lifelong Christians alike.
Christianity is about a relationship—one that requires two-way communication: hearing from God through Scripture, and talking to Him through prayer. Too many of us focus on one-way communication— and lose the day spiritually to the distractions of this world.
What Keeps People from Reading?
Distractions
Hours lost to mindless scrolling through content that doesn't honor God— entertainment that numbs rather than nourishes. The phone isn't the enemy; it's what we scroll that matters.
“The daily distractions of life… lack of personal motivation if I'm not in a group that keeps me accountable.”
Heart Issues
Discouragement, anger, guilt, and confusion over others' behavior— some run away from God when they should be running toward Him.
Complacency
“Too Busy”
Where to Start
“We must push past the 'too busy' and 'no time' excuses. Finding a way to get hearing from God through the Bible back on believers' priority lists will go a long way towards building a stronger Christian community and a more effective witness for Christ.”
— Center for Bible Engagement