Ohio is a state located in the Midwestern region of the United States, bordered by Lake Erie to the north. It is a state that boasts a vibrant history, from being the birthplace of seven U.S. Presidents to its key role in the Underground Railroad during the Civil War. Ohio is also home to bustling cities like Columbus, Cleveland, and Cincinnati and boasts abundant natural beauty with its rolling hills and picturesque lakes.
Despite its many strengths, Ohio also faces its own unique challenges, including issues related to education, healthcare, and economic development. However, the state is fortunate to have dedicated leaders who work tirelessly to address these challenges and make Ohio a better place for all its residents.
As we reflect on the current state of Ohio and its challenges, let us also take a moment to pray for this great state and its leaders. Let us pray for wisdom and guidance for those in positions of authority, that they may make wise decisions that benefit all Ohioans. Let us also pray for healing and restoration for those affected by the challenges facing Ohio, and for a brighter future for the state and its people.
Psalm 33:12
Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people he chose for his inheritance.
Ohio’s residents are diverse people united by a common faith in the Lord. As followers of Christ, we are called to lift up our communities in prayer and intercession. This post is dedicated to guiding your prayers for Ohio, focusing on its residents’ economic stability, safety, and overall health and happiness. Let us unite in faith, lifting up Ohio and its inhabitants to our Heavenly Father, who hears and answers our prayers.
Quick Brief
Population: According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the population of Ohio was 11,536,504 in 2010 and increased to 11,689,100 in 2019 [1]. QuickFacts data from 2021 show the population estimate of Ohio to be 11,799,448 [6]. This figure is close to the given text but may not be accurate as population estimates vary depending on the source and the year.
It’s worth noting that the population of Ohio is diverse. QuickFacts data shows that as of 2017-2021, 86.5% of people age 1 year and older have lived in the same house for at least a year, and 12.8% of people age 5 years and older speak a language other than English at home [3]. The median age of Ohio’s population is 39.5 years as of 2019 [1], and the ratio of females to males is 51.1% to 48.9% [7].
GDP: The GDP of Ohio varies depending on the year. According to the Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA), the GDP of Ohio was $650.6 billion in 2019, ranking seventh among all US states in terms of GDP [1]. The BEA also reports that Ohio’s GDP grew at a rate of 3.1% in 2019.
However, other sources such as the World Population Review, report a different figure for Ohio’s GDP. As of 2022, they estimate Ohio’s GDP to be $744 billion [2].
Leadership
Mike DeWine is the current governor of Ohio, having taken office on January 14, 2019, following his election in November 2018 [10]. Before becoming governor, DeWine served as Ohio’s Attorney General and as a U.S. Senator [10].
Andrew J. Ginther has been serving as the mayor of Columbus, Ohio, since January 1, 2016 [2]. Before becoming mayor, he served as a member of the Columbus City Council for nine years [2].
Sherrod Brown is one of Ohio’s two senators in the U.S. Senate, having taken office in January 2007 [6]. He is a Democrat and known for his advocacy for working families and his commitment to protecting the environment [6].
Rob Portman is Ohio’s other senator in the U.S. Senate, having taken office in January 2011 [6]. He is a Republican known for supporting free-market economic policies and fiscal responsibility [6].
Economy
Ohio is a state with a diverse and growing economy. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of December 2022, the unemployment rate in Ohio was 3.8%[1]. Key industries in the state include manufacturing, healthcare, finance, and technology[2]. The most common jobs in Ohio include registered nurses, general and operations managers, sales representatives, and wholesale and manufacturing sales representatives[3]. Ohio’s robust infrastructure includes an extensive highway system and high-speed internet access, which has contributed to its reputation as a hub for businesses and entrepreneurs[4].
Healthcare
Ohio residents can access various healthcare options, including hospitals, clinics, and private practitioners. The state is recognized for its innovative healthcare delivery approaches and patient-centered care. [3] Ohio is also home to several highly regarded healthcare institutions, including the Cleveland Clinic, which is consistently ranked as one of the top hospitals in the country by U.S. News & World Report. [3] Additionally, the Ohio Department of Health is committed to improving the health and well-being of Ohioans through programs that promote healthy lifestyles, disease prevention, and healthcare access. [10] While Ohio has made strides in expanding healthcare access, disparities persist in certain communities, particularly those with lower incomes or rural populations. [3]
Peace/Safety
According to the FBI’s crime data from 2019, property crime rates in the United States were much higher than violent crime rates. Ohio was reported to have 2,109.9 property crimes per 100,000 people and 379.4 violent crimes per 100,000. Property crime in the state primarily comprised larceny/theft, burglary and motor vehicle theft. Cleveland State University, based in Ohio, reported no arrests for major crimes, 67% reported no violence against women, 70% reported no arrests for possession, and 68% reported no disciplinary actions. While Ohio is generally considered safe, it still faces challenges, as with any state. [1][2][3]
Biggest challenges
Like any other state, Ohio faces a range of challenges, including a struggling economy, drug addiction, poverty, homelessness, and limited access to quality healthcare for some residents [5]. These challenges have been identified as some of the most significant issues affecting the state [2]. However, it is important to note that the extent and impact of these challenges may vary across different regions and communities within the state.
Prayer Points for Ohio
Psalm 122:6
6 Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: may those who love you be secure.
- Heavenly Father, we pray for the leaders of Ohio, that You grant them wisdom, guidance and protection as they make decisions that affect the state and its residents.
- Lord, we lift up Ohio’s leaders’ families and loved ones and ask that You give them strength and peace.
- Dear God, we pray for the people of Ohio. May they be blessed with economic stability and safety, and may their needs be met.
- Lord Jesus, we pray for those affected by drug addiction and poverty in Ohio. We ask for Your healing and restoration in their lives.
- Father, we pray for the state’s infrastructure, highways and access to high-speed internet. We ask that You provide the necessary resources for Ohio to improve its infrastructure and digital connectivity.
- God of all creation, we pray for the healthcare system in Ohio. We ask for innovation and accessibility for all residents so that they may receive quality medical care.
- Lord, we pray for a revival in Ohio. May the church rise and live as Christ would, bringing hope, peace, and love to the people of Ohio.
- Heavenly Father, we pray for the education system in Ohio. May teachers and students be blessed with the necessary resources to learn and grow.
- Lord Jesus, we pray for the environment in Ohio. May we be good stewards of the land and protect it for future generations.
- God, we pray for the unity and cooperation of Ohio’s communities, that they may work together to overcome challenges and celebrate successes.
As followers of Christ, we are called to lift up our communities in prayer and intercession. Let us join together in prayer for Ohio
Leave a Reply