Pray for South Dakota

South Dakota is a remarkable state, blessed with sweeping prairies, majestic peaks, and a rich cultural heritage. Its natural beauty and diverse population of 885,000 have made it a special place. South Dakota is a melting pot of stories and experiences, from its indigenous people’s vibrant traditions to the fusion of various cultures. Join us in praying for this magnificent state and its people.

Jeremiah 29:11

For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

This verse is relevant to South Dakota, reminding its residents of God’s constant care and guidance. No matter what life brings, the Lord has a plan for us, and it is always one of hope, success, and abundance.

Quick Brief

Population: According to the United States Census Bureau’s 2021 Population Estimate, the population of South Dakota is 895,376 [3].

GDP: According to data from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA), the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of South Dakota was $61,206,000,000 in 2021 [2].

Leadership

Governor Kristi Noem is currently serving her second term as the governor of South Dakota, having been re-elected in 2022 [1]. Governor Noem is known for her strong support of the Second Amendment and pro-life stance, and vocal advocate for limited government and economic freedom [1].

Dan Ahlers is a former member of the South Dakota Senate, having served from 2013 to 2021. He was the Minority Leader from 2017 to 2018 and has not held the position of Majority Leader [2].

Senator John Thune has been a senior senator for South Dakota since 2005. A member of the Republican Party, Senator Thune has been a strong advocate for conservative values throughout his time in office [3].

Senator Mike Rounds has served as a junior senator for South Dakota since 2015, having previously served as the Governor of South Dakota from 2003 to 2011. Senator Rounds is known for his commitment to protecting the rights of South Dakotans and is a member of the Republican Party [4].

Economy

South Dakota’s economy is heavily dependent on agriculture and tourism is partially true. Agriculture has historically been a significant contributor to the state’s economy, but other industries such as tourism, forestry, and mining have also increased in importance [1]. South Dakota has several popular tourist destinations, including Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, and Badlands National Park [4]. However, no clear evidence supports the claim that the state has a thriving technology industry, with many companies specializing in software development, engineering, and robotics.

The unemployment rate in South Dakota has varied over time and been impacted by events such as the COVID-19 pandemic. As of February 2021, the state had one of the lowest unemployment rates in the country, tied for best at 3.0% seasonally adjusted [2]. However, in June 2020, the state had an unemployment rate of 7.2%, higher than the national average at the time [6]. There is no clear evidence to support the claim that the current unemployment rate in South Dakota is 3.2%.

Regarding common jobs in South Dakota, agriculture and tourism have historically contributed significantly to the state’s economy [1]. Still, no clear evidence supports the claim that technology is also a common industry in the state.

Healthcare

According to recent reports, 76% of South Dakota residents have access to a regular doctor, slightly higher than the national average of 73.5% [7]. The state has lower opioid and alcohol-related death rates than many other states, which is a positive indicator of the overall health of South Dakotans. However, it is important to note that access to healthcare and health outcomes can vary depending on income level, location, and other demographic factors.

Peace/Safety

South Dakota is considered safe, with low crime rates and well-staffed law enforcement agencies. The state is also known for its strong gun laws and support of the Second Amendment.

Biggest challenges

The biggest challenges for South Dakota include low wages and limited job opportunities, especially in rural areas. The state also faces challenges with healthcare access, particularly for those in remote and rural communities,” is factual.

According to [1] and [2], while jobs are plentiful in South Dakota, most positions pay far below the national average and lower than in neighboring states. South Dakota has the third-lowest average wage in the country. Furthermore, there are concerns about a worker shortage in the state, which could lead to wage increases, but slow economic growth.

Regarding healthcare access, particularly for those in remote and rural communities, [3] highlights how long-term care facilities in South Dakota have faced challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, with reduced resident admissions leading to revenue loss. There are also concerns about the labor shortage in the long-term care industry.

Additionally, as stated in [5], an analysis of federal wage data from 2017 showed that about 21% of employed South Dakota residents, about 87,000 people, made under $30,000 a year, and 41% of employed South Dakotans made under $40,000 a year. This suggests that low wages are a significant issue for many workers in the state.

Regarding healthcare access, while South Dakota has a relatively low uninsured rate, as the U.S. Census Bureau reported in [8], healthcare access can still be a challenge for those in remote and rural communities.

Prayer Points for South Dakota

Isaiah 41:10

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

• Heavenly Father, we lift up the leaders of South Dakota to you. We ask that you bless them with good health, wisdom, and guidance as they make decisions for the state. “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.” (1 Timothy 2:1-2)
• Lord, we pray for the families of the leaders in South Dakota. We ask that you grant them peace, love, and happiness. “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” (Romans 15:13)
• Father, we lift up the residents of South Dakota to you. We ask that you provide them with job opportunities, economic stability, and access to quality healthcare. “The Lord will open the heavens, the storehouse of his bounty, to send rain on your land in season and to bless all the work of your hands.” (Deuteronomy 28:12)
• Lord, we pray for peace and safety in South Dakota. We ask that you protect the residents of South Dakota from natural disasters, crime, and other forms of harm. “He will shield you with his wings! They will shelter you. His faithful promises are your armour.” (Psalm 91:4)
• Lord, we pray for the schools and educational systems in South Dakota. We ask that you bless the children with quality education and the teachers with the necessary resources and support. “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” (Proverbs 9:10)
• Father, we pray for the churches in South Dakota. We ask for revival, growth, and unity among the body of Christ. “I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought.” (1 Corinthians 1:10)
• Lord, we pray for the farmers and ranchers in South Dakota. We ask for good crops, healthy livestock, and a prosperous harvest. “May there be abundant grain throughout the land, flourishing even on the hilltops.” (Psalm 72:16)
• Father, we pray for the businesses in South Dakota. We ask for success, prosperity, and growth in their industries. “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19)
• Lord, we ask that you bless South Dakota with a bright future and an abundant life for everyone there. Amen. “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” (John 10:10)

Conclusion

As we conclude this post, it is clear that South Dakota is a unique state with its own set of challenges and strengths. While the state is known for its low crime rates, support of the Second Amendment, and good health status, it also faces low wages, limited job opportunities in rural areas, and healthcare access. Through prayer, we can lift up the leaders, residents, schools, churches, farmers, and businesses of South Dakota and ask God to provide them with guidance, protection, success, and blessings. With faith and hope, we believe South Dakota can have a bright future and an abundant life for everyone there.