What the Bible Says About...Chikamu

Introduction

You’ll find this devotional is unique in several ways.

First, it doesn’t contain one word or thought by a human, but onlyphrases or verses directly from the Bible. The reason is simple: “For the word of God is living and active” (He 4:12), “All Scripture is God-breathed” (2Ti 3:16-17), “These are the true words of God” (Re 19:9), and “If anyone adds anything to [these words of prophecy], God will add to that person the plagues described in this scroll” (Re 22:18). You would be appropriately cautious of any author who picks and chooses verses out of context and re-packages them. But I hope you’ll find that this particular effort is righteous and will allow God to speak to you in a new way with His truths.

Second, there are no chapter and verse numbers. These were not original to Scripture and can sometimes get in the way of God’s Spirit speaking to and teaching us. Nevertheless, when people first come across the Bible without book, chapter, and verse, they rightfully wonder if the verses have been changed. Therefore, I’ve put the book, chapter, and verse references at the bottom of each devotion.

Third, often devotionals reflect this or that theological leaning. You won’t find that here either. What I’ve labored to do for you, over the last two decades, is gather significant verses to accurately reflect the whole counsel of God’s word. My guide was this: “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth” (2 Tim 2:15).

Last, but not least, let me encourage you to not just read or listen to these devotionals—rather, allow it to infuse your spirit, heart, and soul—to change you from the inside out. My prayer is that God will use His word to bear His fruit in and through you.

Walt Larimore, Colorado Springs, CO, March, 2024

1. The Bible chapters were developed early in the 13th century with verses being added in the 16th century. The first Bible in English to use both chapters and verses was the Geneva Bible published in 1560. These chapter and verse divisions have since been used in nearly all English Bibles.