Prayer for Minnesota

Minnesota, also known as the “Land of 10,000 Lakes,” has been in the hearts and minds of many as they offer their prayers for the state. Minnesota has much to offer, from its scenic beauty to its bustling cities. However, recent events such as the death of George Floyd, protests, and riots have left the state reeling. As Minnesotans unite to heal and rebuild, many turn to their faith and seek comfort in prayer.

The Bible offers many verses for hope and guidance in times of trouble. Psalm 46:1 says, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” Similarly, Philippians 4:6-7 reminds us to “not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”

As we offer up prayers for Minnesota, let us remember to pray for peace, healing, and unity. May all those affected by recent events feel God’s love and grace, and may we continue to unite as a community to support one another.

Psalm 33:20-22:

“Our soul waits for the Lord; he is our help and our shield. For our heart is glad in him, because we trust in his holy name. Let your steadfast love, O Lord, be upon us, even as we hope in you.”

As believers, we are called to pray for our communities and state, to intercede and lift them up to God. This post is focused on guiding your prayers for Minnesota, and its residents’ economic stability, safety, overall health, and happiness. We must pray for our leaders, no matter our personal opinions, as they play a critical role in shaping the state’s future. Let us join in faith, lifting Minnesota and its inhabitants to our Heavenly Father, who hears and answers our prayers.

Quick Brief

According to the United States Census Bureau, Minnesota’s estimated population as of 2020 is approximately 5,706,494 people [6]. 

According to the Bureau of Economic Analysis, Minnesota’s gross domestic product (GDP) in 2020 was estimated at $324.69 billion [1].

Leadership

Tim Walz is the current governor of Minnesota, and he assumed the position on January 7th, 2019. Before serving as governor, Walz served in the United States Army National Guard as a high school teacher and football coach [4]. 

Jacob Frey is the 48th mayor of Minneapolis [5]. He assumed office on January 2, 2018, and was reelected in 2021. Before becoming mayor, Frey worked as a civil rights attorney in Minneapolis [5].

Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith represent Minnesota in the United States Senate. Amy Klobuchar has been in office since 2007, and before being elected as a senator, she served as a county attorney [1]. Tina Smith was appointed to the Senate in 2018, filling the vacancy created by the resignation of Al Franken, and was subsequently elected in a special election later that year. Before her appointment to the Senate, she served as Lieutenant Governor of Minnesota [2].

Economy

Minnesota is the 22nd most populous and the 12th most extensive state in the United States, located in the Upper Midwest, Great Lakes, and northern regions [1]. It has a population of 5,639,632 people as of 2019, making it the 22nd most populous state [3]. Agriculture, food processing, and medical devices are among the major industries in the state [1]. Minnesota is also home to several large companies such as Target, Best Buy, and General Mills [1]. As of March 2023, the unemployment rate in Minnesota is 4.2% [1].

Common jobs in Minnesota include software developers, medical and health services managers, and registered nurses [2].

Healthcare

Minnesota is the 22nd most populous and 12th most extensive state in the United States, located in the Upper Midwest, Great Lakes, and northern regions of the country. It became a state on May 11, 1858, and has a population of 5.7 million people as of 2019. According to the United Health Foundation’s 2021 Annual Report, Minnesota ranks as the 3rd healthiest state in the nation. This is due to the high percentage of residents with access to healthcare, with 80.3% of Minnesotans having access to a regular doctor compared to the national average of 73.5%. Additionally, only 9.7% of adults in Minnesota report a fair or poor health status [2].

Peace/Safety

Minnesota is generally considered a safe state in the US, with a lower violent crime rate than the national average[1]. The state also has a well-staffed law enforcement, including the Minnesota State Patrol, which enforces traffic laws and investigates crashes on state roads, and the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, which investigates major crimes, among other agencies[2].

Biggest challenges

Minnesota’s biggest challenges include disparities in healthcare and access to education, economic inequality, and climate change [2][8]. The state ranks high in healthcare outcomes, with 80.3% of Minnesota residents having access to a regular doctor compared to the national average of 73.5% and only 9.7% of adults reporting a fair or poor health status [2][8]. However, disparities in healthcare still exist, particularly in communities of color and low-income communities [8]. 

The state’s education system is known for being strong, but there are significant disparities in access to quality education, particularly in low-income communities and communities of color [2][8]. Economic inequality is also a significant challenge in Minnesota, with disparities in income, employment, and homeownership rates across racial and ethnic groups [8]. Finally, climate change is a significant challenge in Minnesota, impacting the state’s environment, including increased flooding, warmer temperatures, and changing wildlife patterns [8].

Prayer Points for Minnesota

Isaiah 58:12

12 Your people will rebuild the ancient ruins and will raise up the age-old foundations; you will be called Repairer of Broken Walls, Restorer of Streets with Dwellings.

• Pray for the leaders of Minnesota, for their health, wellbeing, and guidance as they make decisions. (1 Timothy 2:1-2)
• Pray for their families, that the hand of God would be evident in all they do. (Psalm 121:7-8)
• Commit the affairs of Minnesota to the hand of God, pray for peace and healing in the state. (Psalm 46:1-3)
• Pray for a mighty revival in the church, that believers would live as Christ would have them. (2 Chronicles 7:14)
• Pray for all residents’ access to quality healthcare and education, regardless of economic status. (Matthew 25:35)
• Pray for the state to be a leader in addressing the challenge of climate change and its environmental impact. (Genesis 1:28)
• Pray for racial reconciliation and healing in Minnesota, that all residents would be treated with dignity and respect. (Ephesians 2:14-16)
• Pray for an end to violence and crime in Minnesota, that all residents can live safely and in security. (Psalm 34:14)
• Pray for the homeless and those living in poverty in Minnesota, that they would receive the resources and care they need. (Matthew 25:40)
• Pray for the youth of Minnesota, that they would grow up in healthy environments and have opportunities to succeed. (Proverbs 22:6)