According to health experts, reading provides many benefits, such as:

• Improved brain function

• Increased vocabulary

• Reduced stress levels

• Decreased depression

• Better sleep

• Longer lives

I’d like to take this one step further and say that these benefits are especially true, and possibly even amplified, when we specifically read the Bible.

My son, attend to my words; incline thine ear unto my sayings. Let them not depart from thine eyes; keep them in the midst of thine heart. For they are life unto those that find them, and health to all their flesh. Proverbs 4:20-22 (KJV)

Improved Brain Function

As we exercise the brain, it is strengthened. Similar to a muscle, it develops as we use it. Reading the Word develops the brain and also transforms the mind (Romans 12:2). Reading the Word keeps us mentally sharp, no matter our age (II Timothy 1:7). According to I Corinthians 1:26, we have the mind of Christ. As we read the Word, we put the mind of Christ on, which allows us to think better and sharper. Plus, we gain the wisdom of God from His Word and can make better decisions and solve problems better. It improves our memory and instead of our minds getting worse as we age, the Word can make them get sharper.

The memory of the just is blessed. Proverbs 10:7

Increased Vocabulary

As we read the Word, the words we know will increase. When we apply ourselves to something, we increase in that area. Some people call this the Matthew Effect, found in Matthew 13:12.

For whosoever hath, to him shall be given, and he shall have more abundance: but whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken away even that he hath. Matthew 13:12 (KJV)

Reduced Stress Levels

Reading the Word gets our mind off problems and onto the One who can fix our problems (Hebrews 12:1-3, Philippians 4:8).

Decreased Depression

As we read God’s Word, it brings us closer to Him, so we don’t feel so alone or isolated. The Word brings God’s presence, which brings encouragement and joy. We can fill up on the Word to fill up on joy. The joy of the Lord drives depression away and gives us strength to resist the temptation to get down (Nehemiah 8:10).

Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart: for I am called by thy name, O Lord God of hosts. Jeremiah 15:16 (KJV)

Better Sleep

I like to read the Word before I go to bed. As I lie down, the last thing on my mind is the Word of God. It calms my mind and promotes better sleep and rest.

When thou liest down, thou shalt not be afraid: yea, thou shalt lie down, and thy sleep shall be sweet. Proverbs 3:24 (KJV)

Longer Lives

With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation. Psalm 91:6 (KJV)

God is life. God and His Word are One. Therefore, the Word is life. Time with God in His Word brings life to us. For example, Moses, who spent much time with God, lived to be 120 years old.

These are just a few of the benefits of reading the Word. If any of these sound good to you, then go and get your Bible!