New Mexico is a state located in the southwestern region of the United States. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant history. The state is also home to several Native American tribes and has a significant Hispanic population. As Christians, prayer can help bring peace and healing to our communities, especially in times of need.

In Matthew 18:20, Jesus says, “For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” Let us, therefore, come together in prayer for the people of New Mexico. We pray for their safety and protection, that they may be kept from harm and danger. We pray that the state’s leaders may be guided by wisdom and understanding.

As we lift up our voices in prayer, let us remember the words of Philippians 4:6-7, “Do 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 your minds in Christ Jesus.

Psalm 84:11

For the LORD God is a sun and shield; the LORD bestows favor and honor; no good thing does he withhold from those whose walk is blameless.

This verse reminds us that our God is a God of abundance who provides for all our needs and blesses us in every aspect of life. As we pray for New Mexico, we must remember that God’s love and provision are not limited to any geographic location.

Quick Brief

Population: New Mexico, nicknamed the Land of Enchantment, is the 47th state to join the United States of America. It achieved statehood in 1912. The state capital, Santa Fe, is the oldest state capital in the US. New Mexico is one of the youngest American states, having been admitted as a state only in 1912. The state has a predominantly Hispanic community and Catholic culture.

In terms of population, as of 2020, New Mexico has a population of 2,120,220 people [1].

GDP: New Mexico’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2020, as reported by the Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA), was 95.1 billion USD [1]. GDP measures the total value of goods and services produced within the state’s economy and is a crucial indicator of economic health and growth.

Leadership

Michelle Lujan Grisham is the governor of New Mexico. She is the first woman to hold this position in the state’s history. Before she became governor, she served as a member of the United States House of Representatives, representing New Mexico’s 1st congressional district from 2013 to 2018.

Tim Keller is the current mayor of Albuquerque, the largest city in New Mexico [2]. He has served in this role since January 1, 2017, after being elected with 62 percent of the non-partisan election votes [6]. Before his mayoral role, Keller served as the State Auditor of New Mexico [3]. He won re-election as the mayor of Albuquerque in the general election held on November 2, 2021, and his current term will end on December 31, 2025 [2].

Under Mayor Keller’s leadership, the city has focused on creating a sense of unity and inclusiveness, promoting diversity and resilience [1]. He has also worked towards tackling some of the city’s biggest challenges, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, by setting up testing sites open to anyone who needs it, not just those traveling [4]. Mayor Keller regularly updates the city’s response to the pandemic [5].

Martin Heinrich is a New Mexico senator who served in the United States House of Representatives. He represented New Mexico’s 1st congressional district from 2009 to 2013 before moving to the Senate in 2013. [2].

New Mexico is a state in the Southwestern region of the United States of America that became the 47th state to join the union on January 6, 1912 [2]. Its five bordering states are Arizona, Colorado, Oklahoma, Texas, and Utah [2]. The state capital is Santa Fe [1]. Ben Ray Lujan is one of New Mexico’s senators, along with Martin Heinrich [2]. Lujan was previously a member of the United States House of Representatives [1].

Economy

New Mexico’s economy heavily relies on the oil and gas industry, with the state ranking as the third-largest oil-producing state in the country. Besides, New Mexico is known for its diverse industries, including high-tech sectors such as aerospace and defense, renewable energy, and biotechnology. [1]

New Mexico is a state located in the Southwestern region of the United States of America. Its economy is diversified and not solely dependent on the oil and gas industry. While the state is the fourth-largest oil-producing state in the country, it is also known for high-tech industries such as aerospace and defense, renewable energy, and biotechnology, which contribute significantly to its economy [1]. Some common jobs in New Mexico include petroleum engineers, electrical engineers, and wind turbine service technicians [7]. As of December 2022, the unemployment rate in New Mexico is 5.5% [10].

Healthcare

New Mexico’s healthcare system faces several challenges, including a shortage of healthcare providers, a high percentage of uninsured residents, and high rates of chronic disease. [2] While the state has made strides to increase access to healthcare, many areas remain medically underserved. In addition, New Mexico has one of the country’s highest poverty rates, contributing to the high percentage of uninsured residents. [1] These challenges are compounded by high rates of chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease, which require ongoing medical attention.

Healthcare Prayer Points

1. Pray for an increase in healthcare providers in New Mexico, that more doctors and nurses would be drawn to work in the state and that they would have the resources they need to provide quality care. (Proverbs 3:5-6)
2. Pray for expanding healthcare coverage in New Mexico, that more residents would have access to affordable healthcare. (Jeremiah 33:6)
3. Pray for those who suffer from chronic diseases in New Mexico, that they would receive the care and support they need to manage their conditions. (James 5:14-15)
4. Pray for the state government, that they would prioritize healthcare initiatives and allocate resources to address the healthcare challenges in the state. (1 Timothy 2:1-2)
5. Pray for healthcare organizations and nonprofits in New Mexico, that they would have the resources and support they need to provide essential healthcare services to underserved communities. (Philippians 4:19)
6. Pray for the families of those affected by healthcare challenges in New Mexico, that they would find comfort and strength in their faith. (Psalm 34:18)
7. Pray for the youth of New Mexico, that they would be educated on healthcare issues and equipped to make informed decisions about their health. (Proverbs 2:10-11)
8. Pray for the elderly population in New Mexico, that they would receive the care and support they need to maintain their health and wellbeing. (Isaiah 46:4)
9. Pray for healthcare research in New Mexico, that breakthroughs and advancements would be made to improve healthcare outcomes and quality of life. (Psalm 107:20)
10. Pray for the healthcare system in New Mexico to be strengthened and improved to meet the needs of all its residents. (Psalm 18:2)

Peace/Safety

New Mexico has some challenges when it comes to peace and safety. According to a survey, only 34% of people in New Mexico reported feeling safe in their state, which is tied with Louisiana for the lowest in the nation [1]. Additionally, the crime rate in New Mexico is 72.81 per 1,000 residents during a standard year, putting the state in the 2nd percentile for safety [3]. While violent crime has decreased slightly, 9% of New Mexicans still reported having a personal experience with violent crime in the 12 months before a survey [1]. It is essential to adopt new analytical techniques and intelligence-driven policing strategies to address violence reduction and invest in analytical personnel [4].

Biggest challenges

New Mexico faces challenges in different areas, including its high crime rate, limited access to healthcare providers, and high poverty rate. Additionally, the state struggles with water scarcity and environmental degradation [1][2][4].

Crime is a significant concern in New Mexico, with only 34% of people feeling safe in their state compared to the national average of 55% [1]. However, violent crime rates have decreased from 14% to 9% in the past year, with an average of 72.81 crimes per 1,000 residents in the state during a standard year [3].

Access to healthcare providers is limited, especially in rural areas, with only 40.3% of physicians practicing in rural areas despite these areas making up 75% of the state’s land area [2]. Poverty rates in the state are also high, with an overall poverty rate of 19.7%, and nearly 25% of children living in poverty [2].

New Mexico faces significant water scarcity and environmental degradation challenges due to its arid climate and limited water resources [4]. The state has implemented the Produced Water Act to manage the production and usage of wastewater from oil and gas drilling [3].

Prayer Points for New Mexico

Jeremiah 29:7

7 Also, seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper.

• Heavenly Father, we lift up the leaders of New Mexico to you, that they would seek wisdom, justice, and compassion in their decisions. (Proverbs 2:6-8)
• Lord, we pray for peace and safety in New Mexico, especially in areas with high crime rates. Protect and comfort those affected by violence and crime. (Psalm 91:1-2)
• Dear God, we ask that you strengthen and improve the healthcare system in New Mexico. It could provide quality care for all its residents. (Isaiah 58:6-8)
• Lord, we pray for the oil and gas industry in New Mexico. May it be managed sustainably and responsibly, not harming the environment or people’s health. (Psalm 24:1)
• God, we pray for the restoration of the environment in New Mexico. Protect and preserve the state’s natural beauty and resources for future generations. (Genesis 2:15)
• Father, we ask that you bless the residents of New Mexico with your love and provision. May they experience your presence and grace in every aspect of their lives. (Psalm 23:1-3)
• Lord, we pray for those affected by water scarcity in New Mexico. Provide them access to clean water and help them manage this precious resource. (Isaiah 41:17-18)
• Heavenly Father, we lift up the education system in New Mexico to you. It should be equipped to provide quality education to all its students. (Proverbs 1:7)
• God, we pray for the agricultural industry in New Mexico. Bless farmers and ranchers with good harvests and healthy livestock. (Psalm 65:9-13)
• Lord, we ask for your protection and provision for those affected by natural disasters in New Mexico, such as wildfires and floods. (Psalm 46:1-3)

As followers of Christ, we are called to lift up our communities in prayer and intercession. Let us unite in faith, lifting up New Mexico and its inhabitants to our Heavenly Father, who hears and answers our prayers.

Pennsylvania, situated in the Northeastern region of the United States, is a state steeped in history and culture. Its natural beauty, ranging from rolling hills and scenic countryside to bustling cities and vibrant communities, offers a unique blend of urban charm and rural tranquillity. As we take a moment to reflect on this great state, it’s worth considering the challenges facing its leadership and communities. In this blog post, we invite you to pray for Pennsylvania and its people. We will share some prayer points to help guide us as we lift up this state in prayer. Let us gather to ask for guidance, strength and wisdom for those leading and serving Pennsylvania.

Psalm 33:12

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

Pennsylvania is known for its rich history, particularly its role in founding the United States. From the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall in Philadelphia to Gettysburg, where one of the most famous battles of the Civil War took place, Pennsylvania is where history comes to life.

Quick Brief

Population: The population of Pennsylvania is indeed 12,807,060 [1][6][7][8]. The state’s population has increased by 2% from 2010, when the population was 12,702,379 [1][5]. While the state’s overall population has grown, some counties in Pennsylvania have experienced population decline [9]. It’s important to note that Pennsylvania’s population is diverse, with White alone at 61.6%, Black alone at 12.4%, Hispanic at 18.7%, and Asian alone at 6% [2]. The median household income in Pennsylvania is $59,195 [8].

GDP: The GDP of Pennsylvania in 2021 was 713.69 billion USD, as reported by Statista [1]. 

Leadership

Tom Wolf is the current Governor of Pennsylvania, first elected in 2014. Before his political career, he worked in the private sector as a businessman and philanthropist [1].

Jim Kenney is the current Mayor of Philadelphia, the largest city in Pennsylvania. He has held this position since 2016; before that, he was a Pennsylvania House of Representatives member.

Bob Casey Jr. and Pat Toomey are two U.S. Senators representing Pennsylvania. Bob Casey Jr. is a Democrat serving in the Senate since 2007, while Pat Toomey is a Republican who has served since 2011. Both senators were re-elected to their positions in the 2018 mid-term elections.

Economy

Pennsylvania has a diverse economy, including healthcare, education, energy, and manufacturing industries, as well as several large corporations like Comcast and Wawa. The unemployment rate in Pennsylvania is 6.0% [1]. Some common jobs in Pennsylvania include Registered Nurses, Physicians, Physical Therapist Assistants, and Management Analysts [1].

It is important to note that fact-checking is an ongoing process and information can change over time. Hence, it is important to stay up-to-date on the latest developments and continue to verify the accuracy of information.

Healthcare

According to research, 73.7% of Pennsylvania residents have access to a regular doctor, slightly above the national average of 73.5%. However, the health status of 12.5% of Pennsylvania’s adults is considered fair or poor. The state has a good healthcare infrastructure, with many hospitals and clinics providing quality medical care.

Peace/Safety

Pennsylvania is generally considered safe in the US, with low crime rates and well-staffed police forces. However, some of its cities, such as Philadelphia, may have higher crime rates than others [1]. According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) program, the overall crime rate in Pennsylvania was 2,401.1 per 100,000 inhabitants in 2020, which is lower than the national average of 3,635.6 per 100,000 inhabitants. Additionally, the violent crime rate in Pennsylvania was 301.3 per 100,000 inhabitants, also lower than the national average of 368.9 per 100,000 inhabitants [2]. However, Philadelphia had a higher crime rate in 2020, with an overall crime rate of 4,561 per 100,000 inhabitants and a violent crime rate of 633.6 per 100,000 inhabitants [3]. It is important to note that crime rates can vary widely within a city, and some neighbourhoods may be safer than others.

Biggest challenges

According to available data, the statement “The biggest challenges in Pennsylvania include poverty and income inequality. The state also needs help in terms of public education, as well as infrastructure and transportation” appears factual.

Regarding poverty and income inequality, the Census Bureau reports that the poverty rate in Pennsylvania was 9.9% in 2019 [10]. Additionally, the state has been ranked 36th in the nation for income inequality in 2022, with a Gini coefficient of 0.461 [1].

Regarding public education, a 2021 report by Education Week ranked Pennsylvania 23rd in the nation for K-12 education [2]. The state also faces funding challenges for its public schools, with a recent lawsuit alleging that its funding formula for public education is unconstitutional [3].

Regarding infrastructure and transportation, the American Society of Civil Engineers gave Pennsylvania a grade of C- in its 2021 infrastructure report card, citing concerns over the state’s deteriorating roads, bridges, and transit systems [4]. The state has also been dealing with issues related to aging infrastructure, such as water main breaks and sinkholes [5].

Prayer Points for Pennsylvania

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.

• Lord, we pray for ending poverty and income inequality in Pennsylvania. We ask that you provide for those struggling financially and give them hope for a better future.
• We pray that the public education system in Pennsylvania will be adequately funded and staffed with qualified educators with a heart for teaching.
• Father, we pray that Pennsylvania’s infrastructure and transportation systems will be maintained and upgraded as needed to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents and visitors.
• Lord, we pray for Pennsylvania’s immigrant population to be welcomed and treated with dignity and respect.
• We pray for an end to violence and crime in the state, and for law enforcement officials to have the wisdom and resources they need to protect the communities they serve.
• Father, we pray for the natural resources of Pennsylvania that they would be protected and stewarded well for the benefit of future generations.
• We pray that Pennsylvania’s arts and cultural institutions would thrive and bring joy and inspiration to all who experience them.
• Lord, we pray for the homeless and those struggling with addiction in Pennsylvania, that they would find hope and heal through your grace and the support of caring individuals and organizations.
• We pray for racial reconciliation in Pennsylvania that barriers between people of different races and ethnicities would be broken down and that unity and understanding would prevail.
• Father, we pray for a spirit of cooperation and collaboration among the people and leaders of Pennsylvania, that they would work together for the common good and for the flourishing of all.

As followers of Christ, we are called to lift up our communities in prayer and intercession. Let us unite in faith, lifting up Pennsylvania and its inhabitants to our Heavenly Father, who hears and answers our prayers.

As we turn our hearts towards South Carolina, let us lift up prayers of hope and healing for its people. South Carolina is steeped in rich history and proud traditions. Despite facing conflicts and struggles, this resilient state has always persevered. Join us in prayer for this state with a spirit that refuses to be broken.

Psalm 33:12

Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD; and the people whom he hath chosen for his own inheritance.

This verse reminds us that the Lord is our rock and refuge, no matter where we may be. In times of uncertainty and turmoil, we can take comfort in knowing He is watching over and guiding us.

Quick Brief

Population: the population of South Carolina as of 2019 is 5,148,714, making it the 23rd most populous state in the US [3]. However, the population may have grown since then.

GDP: The GDP of South Carolina as of 2021 is $270.08 billion in nominal terms and $220.69 billion in chained 2012 dollars [1, 2, 9]. 

Leadership

Henry Dargan McMaster is indeed the governor of South Carolina [1]. McMaster was born in Columbia, South Carolina, in 1947 and has a degree in history from the University of South Carolina. Throughout his career, he has held various positions in government, including serving as the state’s attorney general and lieutenant governor [1]. McMaster is a member of the Republican Party and has been a strong advocate for conservative values [6]. Regarding his religious beliefs, while he has been described as a devout Christian, it is not clear how strongly he advocates for them in his political work.

Steve Benjamin is indeed the mayor of Columbia, the capital city of South Carolina. Benjamin was first elected in 2010 and has since been re-elected twice. He has a strong track record of community involvement, including serving on the Columbia City Council and as the city’s mayor pro tempore before being elected mayor. Benjamin has also been a leader in promoting economic growth and development in the city, including initiatives to revitalize downtown Columbia [10].

Lindsey Graham and Tim Scott are the two senators representing South Carolina in the United States Senate. Lindsey Graham has been a senator since 2003, while Tim Scott has been a senator since 2013 [11]. Both are Republicans known for their conservative views and a strong commitment to serving their constituents.

Economy

South Carolina has a diverse economy, with several industries contributing to its growth. Manufacturing is a significant part of the state’s economy, with transportation equipment being the most significant export [1]. Chemicals also play an essential role in the state’s economy, with companies such as DuPont and Honeywell having a presence in South Carolina [1]. Additionally, tourism is a growing industry in South Carolina, with popular destinations such as Charleston, Myrtle Beach, and Hilton Head [6].

According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate in South Carolina was 4.6% as of January 2023 [1]. However, it is worth noting that unemployment rates can fluctuate over time and may vary by region and industry.

As for common jobs in South Carolina, chemical technicians, machinists, and food service managers are listed among the top 50 occupations in the state based on employment numbers [1].

Healthcare

According to a recent report, South Carolina has a slightly higher percentage of residents with access to a regular doctor than the national average. As of 2023, 76.6% of South Carolina residents have access to a regular doctor [1]. However, the state’s overall health status still lags behind the national average, with 20.3% of adults reporting a fair or poor health status [1].

Peace/Safety

South Carolina’s relatively low crime rate is considered safe overall [1]. However, it is essential to note that, like any state, it is not immune to criminal activity [1]. Therefore, residents should always be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to protect themselves [1].

Biggest challenges

South Carolina’s healthcare system has been under pressure due to a lack of access to healthcare and poverty, with many adults reporting a fair or poor health status. Furthermore, a lack of job opportunities has led to high unemployment rates and low incomes for some residents. Additionally, there is a need for increased investment in education and infrastructure to support economic growth and development. [1] [2] [3] 

Prayer Points for South Carolina

James 5:16

Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.

• Pray for the leaders of South Carolina. May they have wisdom, guidance, and grace as they lead the state forward. “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
• Pray for their families. May they be protected, blessed, and encouraged in all they do. “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.” – Numbers 6:24-26
• Pray for the people of South Carolina. May they find comfort and hope in difficult times and prosper in all things. “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
• We pray for increased healthcare access, especially for rural and underprivileged communities. “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” – Psalm 147:3
• We pray to end poverty and for job opportunities to flourish throughout the state. “Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed.” – Psalm 82:3
• We pray for a revival of the church in South Carolina. May it be a beacon of hope and light for all who enter its doors. “And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock, I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.” – Matthew 16:18
• We pray for increased healthcare access, especially for rural and underprivileged communities, by the biblical teaching in James 5:14-16 that we should care for the sick and pray for their healing. May the leaders of South Carolina work to ensure that every person in the state has access to quality healthcare, regardless of their location or financial situation.
• We also pray to end poverty and for job opportunities to flourish throughout the state, as inspired by Psalm 72:4, which reminds us that the leader’s role is to defend the cause of the poor and to give deliverance to the needy. May the leaders of South Carolina work to create policies and initiatives that will lift people out of poverty and provide them with the tools and resources they need to thrive.
• We pray for a revival of the church in South Carolina, as guided by 2 Chronicles 7:14, which states that if God’s people humble themselves and pray, seeking His face and turning from their wicked ways, then God will hear from heaven, forgive their sins, and heal their land. May the churches in South Carolina be filled with the Holy Spirit and a beacon of hope and light for all who enter their doors.

As followers of Christ, we are called to lift up our communities in prayer and intercession. Let us unite in faith, lifting up South Carolina and its inhabitants to our Heavenly Father, who hears and answers our prayers.