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Prayer Relay Movement April 7, 2023 Leave a Comment

Prayer for Indiana

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With great humility and sincerity, I ask you to join me in a prayer for Indiana. Today’s world is full of uncertainties and challenges, and Indiana is no exception. In such times, we must unite as a community and direct our collective prayers to the Almighty for strength, guidance and protection.

Let us pray for Indiana as it navigates the current economic and political landscape and faces numerous challenges that threaten to disrupt the peace and stability of the state. Let us pray for elected officials, business owners and workers as they strive to create a thriving and prosperous environment for all.

Let us also pray for Indiana as it grapples with daily social and cultural issues. Let us pray for those who are marginalized, oppressed or voiceless and work together to create a more just society

Finally, let us remember how important faith and spirituality are in our daily lives. May our prayers for Indiana remind us of the power of prayer and the importance of our relationship with God.

Psalm 33:12
Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people he chose for his inheritance.

As disciples of Christ, it is our duty to pray for our churches and states. This post is intended to guide your prayers for the state of Indiana, focusing on its residents’ spiritual, economic, and general welfare. Together in faith, let us lift Indiana and its residents to our Heavenly Father, who hears and answers our prayers.

Quick Brief

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Indiana’s estimated population on July 1, 2019, was 6,732,219, representing a 3.83% increase since the 2010 United States Census [7].

Indiana is the 17th most populous state in the United States [4], in North America’s Midwestern and Great Lakes regions [9]. The state attained statehood on December 11, 1816, becoming the 19th state to join the union [9]. Indiana is bordered by the states of Ohio, Michigan, Kentucky, and Illinois [4]. With a total area of 36,418 square miles, it is the 38th largest state in the US [4].

According to Statista, Indiana’s real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2021 was 352.62 billion U.S. dollars [1]. Indiana’s gross state product was US$359 billion in 2017, with a per capita income of $44,165 [2].

It is worth noting that Indiana’s economy saw significant growth in the third quarter of 2021 as consumers and businesses adapted to the coronavirus pandemic. However, the state’s economy has yet to fully recover from the pandemic’s effects [4].

Leadership

Eric J. Holcomb is the current governor of Indiana, having been elected to the position in 2016 and reelected in 2020, as mentioned in sources [1] and [4]. He has served in this office since 2017, as he took office on January 9, 2017, after the previous governor, Mike Pence, was sworn in as Vice President of the United States. Eric Holcomb is married to Janet Holcomb, Indiana’s First Lady, as noted in sources [3] and [9].

Joe Hogsett is the 49th mayor of Indianapolis, the state’s capital [1][2][4][7]. He has been serving as mayor of Indianapolis since 2015, when he was elected on November 3 of that year [2][4][5][7]. Before becoming mayor, Hogsett served as the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, a position he held from 2010 to 2014 [1][5][6].

Todd Young is one of Indiana’s senators, serving since 2017 [3]. He is a former U.S. Marine and a member of the U.S. Naval Reserve [2]. Mr. Young is married to Jennifer and they have three children [9].

Mike Braun is one of Indiana’s senators, serving since January 2019, [2][4]. He is a businessman who founded a distribution company, Meyer Distributing, which he still owns, and serves as its CEO.

Economy

Indiana is home to a diversified economy with a strong manufacturing sector, and vehicles and machinery are among the state’s largest exports, accounting for approximately $13.3 billion in 2019 [1]. In Indiana, production supervisors, machinists, and mechanical engineers are common jobs [2]. As of February 2023, the unemployment rate in Indiana is 3.2% [3].

Healthcare

According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, as of 2021, 72.3% of Indiana residents have access to a regular doctor, slightly below the national average of 73.5% [1]. Additionally, the Indiana State Department of Health reports that 17.7% of Indiana adults reported fair or poor health in 2020, which is higher than the national average of 13.5% [2].

Peace/Safety

According to FBI crime statistics for 2020, Indiana’s overall crime rate was lower than the national average, and many of the state’s communities have relatively low crime rates. Indiana’s opioid epidemic has been a significant public health crisis in recent years, and the state has struggled with high rates of drug overdose deaths. Additionally, while Indiana’s violent crime rate has decreased in recent years, the state still has higher rates of certain types of violent crime, such as aggravated assault and homicide, compared to the national average. While Indiana is relatively safe, it still faces challenges regarding certain types of crime and drug abuse. [1] [2]

Biggest Challenges

Indiana faces significant addiction and drug abuse challenges, with the state experiencing higher-than-average rates of opioid overdose deaths [1]. Additionally, economic struggles have been challenging for many Indiana residents, with some areas of the state experiencing high poverty rates and limited job opportunities [2]. Finally, access to healthcare has been a concern in some communities in Indiana, particularly in rural areas where there may be a shortage of healthcare providers and facilities [3].

Prayer Points for Indiana

Jeremiah 29:7
7 And seek the peace of the city whither I have caused you to be carried away captives, and pray unto the Lord for it: for in the peace thereof shall ye have peace.

Let us pray for the leaders of Indiana, for their health and well-being, both physically and spiritually, that the wisdom and guidance of the Lord may lead them. (1 Timothy 2:1-2)
We pray that the Lord would guide their steps as they make decisions for the state, that they may act with justice and righteousness. (Proverbs 21:1)
Pray for their families, that the hand of the Lord would be evident in their lives and that they may be strengthened in their faith. (Joshua 24:15)
Let us pray for the state of Indiana, committing its affairs to the hand of God, that His will may be done and His purposes fulfilled. (Proverbs 16:3)
We pray for an outpouring of the Holy Spirit in Indiana, that a mighty revival would sweep through the state, bringing hope, healing, and salvation to all who call upon the name of the Lord. (Acts 2:17-18)
Father, we ask for provision and opportunities for healthcare, especially for those who lack access to medical care, that they may receive the healing they need. (Psalm 103:2-3)
We pray for peace and safety, that drug abuse and violence would be eradicated, and that Indiana would be a place of peace and prosperity, where people can thrive and flourish. (Psalm 122:6-7)
Lord, we ask for your protection over the families and communities of Indiana, that they may be safe from harm and danger, and that your peace would reign in their hearts. (Isaiah 54:17)
We pray for the churches and ministries of Indiana, that the Holy Spirit may empower them to carry out your work and share your love with those around them. (Matthew 28:19-20)
Father, we lift up the people of Indiana, that they may know you and experience your love and grace in their lives, and that they may find their hope and strength in you. (Jeremiah 29:11)

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Prayer Relay Movement April 6, 2023 Leave a Comment

Prayer for the State of Iowa

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Pray for Iowa State

As the state of Iowa stands at the crossroads of progress and challenges, it is important to pause and reflect on the power of prayer. With its fertile farmland, vibrant cities and welcoming communities, Iowa has been a beacon of hope and resilience for generations. In these uncertain times, however, we must remember that our words and actions can determine the course of our collective destiny. Through the lens of lexical semantics, let us explore the meaning of prayer for the state of Iowa and how it can strengthen our bonds, lift our spirits, and pave the way for a brighter future.

Psalm 33:12

Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people he chose for his inheritance.

As followers of Christ, we are called to lift up our communities in prayer and intercession. This post is intended to guide your prayers for the state of Iowa, focusing on economic stability, safety, and its residents’ overall health and happiness. We need to pray for our politicians, regardless of our personal opinions of them, because they play a critical role in shaping the state’s future. Let us unite in faith and lift Iowa and its residents to our Heavenly Father, who hears and answers our prayers.

Quick Brief

Population

According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s Population Estimates Program, as of 2019, Iowa’s estimated population is 3,155,070 people, up 108,199 from the 2010 population [1][5]. Other sources, including the Iowa Department of Transportation and the Independent Voter Project, also confirm that Iowa’s estimated population in 2019 was 3,155,070 [3][10]. Iowa’s population has steadily increased, with 2,926,324 people in 2000 and 3,046,355 people in 2010 [2]. Iowa is the 31st most populous state in the US [6]. Its population is spread across 99 counties and 944 incorporated towns and cities, with Des Moines being the most populous city with a population of 204,220 [3].

GDP

According to the latest available data, Iowa’s real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2021 was approximately $219.842 billion [3]. Other sources, such as data.iowa.gov and fred.stlouisfed.org, also confirm that Iowa’s GDP has been growing in real terms over the past five years and has reached the highest level recorded to date [1][4][8]. Furthermore, the finance, insurance, real estate, rental, and leasing industry added the most real value to Iowa’s GDP in 2021 [5]. It is important to note that Iowa’s economy has evolved, and although it was once an agricultural state, it is now diversified [7]. Iowa’s GDP has increased since 2010; as of 2021, it is approximately $219.842 billion [3].

Leadership

Kim Reynolds has been the governor of Iowa since 2017 and has had a long career in politics, serving as Lieutenant Governor and a state senator. Reynolds was elected as the 43rd governor of Iowa in 2017. She was the first woman elected to the state’s highest office in November 2018 [2]. Before being elected as Governor, Reynolds served as the Lieutenant Governor of Iowa from 2011 to 2017; before that, she served as a state senator [10].

Frank Cownie is the mayor of Des Moines, Iowa, and has served in this role since 2004. [5] Mayor Cownie is a native of Des Moines and grew up attending Theodore Roosevelt High School and Iowa State University. [1]

Mayor Cownie is known for his dedication to environmental advocacy and community development. He is the president of Local Governments for Sustainability (ICLEI), a group based in Germany that works with local leaders on environmental, economic, and social problems. [2] Cownie has also gained more international influence as an environmental advocate since the last election. [4]

Chuck Grassley and Joni Ernst are Iowa’s senators[2]. Senator Grassley has been serving in office since 1981 [1]. Ernst was elected to the Senate in 2014 but officially took office in January 2015 [5]. Both senators have extensive political careers, with Senator Grassley previously serving in the U.S. House of Representatives and Senator Ernst serving in the Iowa State Senate and the Iowa Army National Guard [3][5]. While they are dedicated to serving the people of Iowa, they have also faced criticism from some Iowa residents and organizations for their political stances and actions [2][9][10].

Economy

Agriculture is a major contributor to Iowa’s economy, as the state is known for its fertile soil and favorable climate for farming. Over 85% of Iowa’s land is farmed, with corn and soybeans being the state’s top crops [5][4]. Iowa is also home to several major corporations, including John Deere, Casey’s General Stores, and Rockwell Collins, contributing to the state’s economy through job creation and revenue generation [1][2].

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), as of May 2021, the top three occupations in Iowa by employment were Retail Salespersons, Cashiers, and Registered Nurses [1]. Agriculture is a significant industry in Iowa, and the state has a high percentage of workers in the agriculture sector. The BLS reports that in May 2020, approximately 7.3% of Iowa’s employment was in the agriculture, forestry, fishing, and hunting industry [2]. As of February 2022, Iowa’s unemployment rate was 2.5%, lower than the national average [3]. according to the BLS, as of May 2021, the median annual wage for Agricultural Managers in Iowa was $75,610, while the median hourly wage for Agricultural Workers was $14.92 [4]. Iowa’s median annual wage for Food Service Managers was $51,690 [4].

Healthcare

The claim that 81.9% of Iowa residents have access to a regular doctor, compared to the national average of 73.5%, is true based on the available evidence [1]. Additionally, the claim that the state’s health status is better than the national average, with 11.4% of adults having a fair or poor health status, also appears to be true according to the data provided by the State of Iowa’s Department of Public Health [1].

Peace/Safety

According to the sources [2], [6], and [7], Iowa has generally considered a safe state with a relatively low crime rate. However, there has been a slight increase in crime over the past couple of years, with 338 violent crimes per 100,000 people in 2020, a 5% increase from the previous year. Some cities, such as Des Moines, have higher crime rates than the state average, while other cities, such as Polk City, are ranked among the safest cities in the state. Nevertheless, Iowa’s crime rate remains below the national average. While Iowa cannot be considered crime-free, it is generally regarded as a safe state with a well-staffed police force. [1]

Biggest challenges

While Iowa is generally considered a safe state with low crime rates [2], limited access to healthcare in rural areas is an issue that Iowa is facing [2]. In fact, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation, Iowa ranks 34th in the country for overall health, indicating room for improvement [11]. Iowa’s poverty rate was 8.1% in 2019, which was lower than the national average of 10.5% for that same year [12]. Additionally, Iowa has an unemployment rate of 2.8% as of February 2023, below the national average [8].

Prayer Points for Iowa

Ephesians 6:18
And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.

Heavenly Father, we pray for the leaders of Iowa (Proverbs 11:14). May they be guided by wisdom and integrity as they lead the state. We ask that You grant them discernment and understanding to make wise decisions that benefit all residents.
Lord, we pray for the families of Iowa’s leaders. May they be surrounded by love and support (Psalm 133:1). We ask that You bless their families with good health, strong relationships, and joy.
Almighty God, we pray for the state of Iowa (Psalm 91:1). We ask that Your hand of protection be upon it and its residents. We pray that You would guard them from harm and danger and keep them safe from all evil.
Lord, we pray for the economy of Iowa (Deuteronomy 28:8). We ask that You bless the agriculture sector with abundance and prosperity. May the farmers and ranchers of Iowa experience Your favor and provision, and may their harvest be bountiful.
Father, we pray for the healthcare system of Iowa (Isaiah 58:8). We ask that You bless them with resources, funding, and competent staff to provide quality care to all residents. May they have the necessary tools and equipment to meet the healthcare needs of the people.
Lord, we pray for peace and safety in all communities of Iowa (Psalm 46:1). We ask that You protect them from violence, crime, and unrest. May they experience Your peace that surpasses all understanding and Your provision for all their needs.
Heavenly Father, we pray for a spiritual awakening in Iowa (2 Chronicles 7:14). May the church rise up and impact their communities for the glory of God. We ask that You would open the hearts of the people to receive the gospel of Jesus Christ and that they may come to know You as their Lord and Savior.

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Prayer Relay Movement April 3, 2023 Leave a Comment

Prayer for Kansas

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Kansas has faced a host of challenges, from natural disasters to economic downturns and social unrest. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed and helpless during difficult times. However, Paul reminds us in the Bible that we can make the most of a bad situation and find creative ways to overcome our problems.

As we pray for Kansas, let’s follow Paul’s example of turning adversity into opportunity. While in prison, he didn’t lose hope. Instead, he asked for a coat to stay warm and books to continue learning and writing.

Similarly, we can focus on what we can do rather than what we can’t. We can strengthen our faith, learn new skills, or reconnect with loved ones. We can also support our neighbours and lift each other up.

As we pray for strength and wisdom, remember to pray for our state and national leaders. May they be guided by wisdom and compassion. And let’s pray for all those who are struggling, that they may find comfort, healing, and hope.

Together, we can overcome any obstacle and emerge stronger and more resilient. Let’s pray for Kansas and all those who call it home.

Isaiah 41:10
Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

Kansas, with a population of 2,913,314, is a state in the Midwestern region of the United States. With a GDP of 179.2 billion USD, it is important that we lift up this state and its residents in prayer, asking God to bless and guide them in all areas of their lives, including economic stability, safety, and overall health and happiness.

Leadership

According to [2], Laura Kelly is the current governor of Kansas, serving since 2018, and before she was elected governor, she served as a senator in the Kansas State Senate. Kelly has expressed her commitment to expanding access to healthcare, investing in education, and protecting the rights of all Kansans.

The mayor of Kansas City, Kansas is the highest official of the city government, and since 1997 has been referred to as “mayor/CEO” of the “United Government of Wyandotte County and Kansas City, Kansas” [1]. Other cities in Kansas also have mayors, such as Peggy Dunn, Mayor of Leawood, Kansas and Mark Holland, Mayor of the Unified Government of Wyandotte County/Kansas City, Kansas [2]. Each mayor has their own duties and responsibilities, which may include overseeing public works departments, leading town council meetings, and promoting excellence in local government [7].

Jerry Moran and Roger Marshall as the two senators representing Kansas in the United States Senate [1]. Moran has been serving in the Senate since 2011, and he was previously a member of the United States House of Representatives for Kansas’s 1st congressional district from 1997. Roger Marshall, on the other hand, was elected to the Senate in 2020 after serving as a member of the United States House of Representatives for Kansas’s 1st congressional district from 2017 to 2021. Both senators have expressed their commitment to serving the people of Kansas and working to advance policies that benefit their constituents [1].

Economy

Kansas is a significant contributor to the United States’ agricultural sector, with wheat, corn, and sorghum among its top exports [1][4]. Other industries in the state include aviation, manufacturing, and transportation [7]. The current unemployment rate in Kansas is 4.0% [9]. Common jobs in the state include farming, agricultural management, and transportation work. The state is indeed working on expanding access to broadband internet and investing in technology and innovation to support economic growth [6].

Healthcare

Kansas has a higher-than-average rate of uninsured residents, with an estimated 12.2% lacking health insurance. However, the state is taking steps to improve access to quality healthcare for all residents, including expanding Medicaid and increasing investment in rural healthcare. These initiatives aim to provide better healthcare coverage to the state’s population, particularly those without insurance or limited access to healthcare services. [1, 2, 3, 4]

Peace and Safety

According to a report by the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, Kansas has a lower violent crime rate than the national average [2]. Additionally, the state has well-funded and staffed law enforcement agencies, which is reflected in the state’s rank as the 17th safest state in the US in a 2021 report by SafeWise [2]. However, regarding the opioid and substance abuse crisis, Kansas has been facing challenges in recent years. The state experienced a significant increase in opioid-related deaths from 2013 to 2017, and while the number has decreased since then, it remains a concern [1]. Kansas has implemented initiatives to combat the crisis, such as a prescription drug monitoring program and increasing access to treatment [1].

Biggest Challenges

Kansas faces various challenges, such as expanding access to healthcare, improving the rural economies, and addressing substance abuse and addiction issues. The state is known for its friendly residents, vast farmland, and agricultural production, especially wheat and sorghum grains. The state has a population of approximately 2.9 million people, and around 88% of the land in Kansas is farmland, making it the top producer of wheat and sorghum grains in the United States.

Kansas has also been the leader in wheat milling despite some decline in production. The state has faced conflicts in the past, including the period of violent guerrilla warfare between pro-slavery and anti-slavery forces known as “Bleeding Kansas.” Kansas’s flag has the state seal, name, and sunflower on a blue field, representing the state’s history and the life of pioneers. Kansas faces significant challenges in addressing rising rates of opioid and substance abuse, expanding access to healthcare, and improving rural economies [1, 3, 4, 5, 6].

Prayer Points for Kansas

1 Chronicles 12:32
And from the tribe of Issachar, men who had understanding of the times, with knowledge of what Israel should do, their chiefs were two hundred; and all their kinsmen were at their command.

Psalm 121:1-2
I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.

Heavenly Father, we pray for the leaders of Kansas, asking You to give them Your wisdom and guidance as they make decisions that impact the state and its residents. (Proverbs 3:5-6)
Lord, we pray for a spirit of unity and cooperation among the leaders of Kansas, as they work together for the good of the state. (Psalm 133:1)
We ask You, Lord, to bless the economy of Kansas, providing opportunities for growth and prosperity for all its residents. (Deuteronomy 28:12)
Father, we pray for healing and restoration for those struggling with addiction and substance abuse in Kansas. May they find hope and freedom in You. (Psalm 147:3)
Lord, we ask You to bring peace and safety to all communities in Kansas, protecting its residents from harm and violence. (Psalm 91:2)
We pray for the church in Kansas, asking You to pour out Your Spirit and bring revival to the state. May Your love and truth be known and experienced by all who live there. (Acts 2:17-18)
Lord, we pray for the farmers and ranchers of Kansas, that they may be blessed with favourable weather, abundant crops, and healthy livestock. (Joel 2:23-24)
Heavenly Father, we lift up the educators and students of Kansas, asking You to grant them wisdom, knowledge, and understanding. (Proverbs 2:6-7)
Lord, we pray for those who are struggling with poverty and homelessness in Kansas, that they may find the help and support they need. (Psalm 82:3-4)
Father, we ask for Your grace and mercy to be upon the people of Kansas, that they may experience Your love, peace, and joy in all aspects of their lives. (2 Corinthians 13:14)

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