Read: Acts 19:1–7

“Into what then were you baptized?” They answered, “Into John’s baptism.” Acts 19:3

Paul encountered men of faith in Ephesus who knew only of the teachings and baptism of John. They did not know Jesus. They were not followers of the Way. They had not received the gift of the Holy Spirit. While John the Baptist was a powerful and important prophet and teacher, he himself testified that he was no substitute for Jesus.

We often substitute other teachers, other leaders, and other messages for Jesus. We follow the latest guru or the popular motivational speaker or perhaps our own internal sense of direction. But when we substitute anyone or anything for Jesus, we miss out on the empowering blessing of his Spirit in our lives. There is no substitute for Jesus.

Are you settling for a substitute when you have been invited to learn from Jesus?

Lord, I get distracted, but when I focus on what is most important, I am reminded that there is no substitute for You in my life. Your guidance, Your direction, and Your counsel lead to life. All other paths are but shadows that dim the light You draw us to. In Your name, I pray. AMEN.