Kazakh People of Kazakhstan

* MUCH MORE about this people group at the JOSHUA PROJECT

The eagle soared high above the steppe, unfettered by the clash of cultures below. Ironically, it was the eagle's earth-bound master that remained tethered to talk of oil pipelines, Islamic extremism and national sovereignty.

Kazakhstan is emerging in the geopolitical crosshairs of global energy policy. Kashagan, located in the Kazakh waters of the Caspian Sea, is one of the major oilfield discoveries of the past 30 years. Some analysts maintain that it could hold from 10 to 30 billion barrels of crude.

The Kazakhs of Kazakhstan have traditionally considered that to be a Kazakh is to be a nomad; in fact, the word "Kazakh" itself means "free" and "independent." As energy-security matters gain center stage in world affairs, Kazakhstan's goverment officials find themselves walking a strategic tightrope towards economic freedom and independence while trying to get their share of the money of the oil bonanza.

The Kazakhs are the least Islamic of the Central Asian Turkic peoples. Today their Islam is mixed with Shamanism. There are many Christian agencies working in the cities, but few working among the rural Kazakhs.


Pray that God will raise up hearty missionaries to go to the rural Kazakhs. Pray for unity amongst known believers who are returning to the villages to share the Good News.-JW

Jud. 7:15

"When Gideon heard the dream and its interpretation, he worshiped God"

Gideon could hardly believe that God would use him to deliver Israel from Midianite aggression. He certainly didn't feel like a "mighty warrior" (6:12), even after God had confirmed His promise by signs and "fleeces." When God invited Gideon and his servant to eavesdrop on a Midianite conversation, Gideon quickly accepted, and the encouragement he received was what he needed to make the decisive attack. Like Gideon, we may be afraid that the job God has given us is too large. To take the gospel to about 10,000 people groups who still haven't heard is a tremendous job. But God is preparing receptive hearts, and He often encourages us by giving us glimpses of His activity among the nations.

Dear Lord, use this prayer guide to lead us to obedience to Your commands and praise of Your goodness.

Source From Global Prayer