Let us be honest. Most human beings do not truly go in search of the Giver of miracles; instead, they go in search of the miracles themselves. They are not interested in knowing God, loving Him, or submitting to His will, but only in receiving something from Him. This reality is evident throughout history and remains just as true today. Many people ignore God in times of peace and stability, but when great difficulty arrives, when pain, illness, or desperation knock at their door, they suddenly remember Him. They cry out to God, ask for help, plead for mercy, but once their problem is solved, they quickly forget the One who rescued them.
This behavior reveals a heart that seeks relief rather than relationship. God becomes, in their minds, a means to an end instead of the ultimate treasure. They do not desire communion with Him; they desire solutions. Sadly, this attitude reduces God to a tool and strips gratitude from the human heart. The Bible repeatedly warns us against this kind of superficial faith, which is rooted in self-interest rather than genuine love for God.
To illustrate this truth clearly, let us look at the well-known story of the ten lepers, recorded in the Gospel of Luke. This account reveals not only the power and mercy of Jesus, but also the condition of the human heart when faced with divine grace.
11 And it came to pass, as he went to Jerusalem, that he passed through the midst of Samaria and Galilee.
12 And as he entered into a certain village, there met him ten men that were lepers, which stood afar off:
13 And they lifted up their voices, and said, Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.
Luke 17:11–13
In biblical times, leprosy was one of the most feared diseases. It not only destroyed the body, but also isolated the person socially, emotionally, and spiritually. Lepers were considered unclean and were forced to live outside of the community. They were forbidden to approach healthy people and had to warn others of their presence. These ten men lived daily with rejection, shame, and hopelessness.
When Jesus passed through their region, they recognized an opportunity. It was common for people to approach Jesus asking for healing, deliverance, and mercy. The ten lepers were no exception. Because of the law, they could not draw near to Him, so they stood at a distance and raised their voices, crying out in desperation. Their plea was simple and sincere: “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.” They knew they had nothing to offer Him, only their need.
Jesus heard their cry. He did not ignore them. He did not rebuke them. Instead, He responded with authority and compassion.
And when he saw them, he said unto them, Go shew yourselves unto the priests. And it came to pass, that, as they went, they were cleansed.
Luke 17:14
Notice something important: Jesus did not immediately declare them healed. He commanded them to go to the priests, as the Law required for those who had been cleansed. This instruction required faith. At the moment Jesus spoke, they were still lepers. Yet they obeyed. As they walked in faith, trusting His word, the miracle happened. Along the way, all ten were cleansed.
This moment reveals the power of obedience and faith. Jesus’ word was enough. They did not question Him. They did not demand proof. They went, and as they went, they were healed. But what happened next exposes a deeper and more troubling truth about the human heart.
And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God,
Luke 17:15
Out of ten men who received the same miracle, only one returned to give thanks. Only one recognized that the miracle deserved a response of worship and gratitude. Only one turned back to glorify God with a loud voice. The other nine continued on their way, satisfied with the gift but indifferent to the Giver.
This scene confirms what we stated at the beginning: many people want God’s help, but not God Himself. The nine lepers had their problem solved. Humanly speaking, they no longer needed Jesus. They had regained their health, their social status, and their freedom. What need did they have for Him now? This mindset is still alive today.
How often do we kneel before God when everything is dark and uncertain, but forget Him when life becomes comfortable? How often do prayers increase in times of crisis and disappear in times of abundance? This selective devotion reveals a heart that is centered on circumstances rather than on God.
The one leper who returned shows us the proper response to grace. Gratitude is evidence of true faith. He did not only receive healing; he recognized the source of that healing. His loud praise demonstrated humility, reverence, and love for God. Jesus Himself highlights this distinction later in the passage, pointing out that only one returned to give glory to God.
This account challenges us deeply. Are we among the nine, or are we the one? Do we seek Jesus only when we are desperate, or do we seek Him because He is worthy? Do we pursue Him for what He can give, or for who He is?
We must seek Jesus every day, in every season of life. Whether we are in pain or in peace, in lack or in abundance, our pursuit of Christ must remain constant. He is not merely a problem-solver; He is Lord, Savior, and King. Our relationship with Him should not depend on circumstances, but on love, faith, and obedience.
Jesus Himself taught us where our priorities must be. He warned against living in constant anxiety over material needs and temporal concerns. Instead, He gave us a clear command that summarizes the proper order of the Christian life:
“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you” (Matthew 6:33).
When we seek Christ first, everything else finds its proper place. God knows our needs before we ask. He is faithful to provide, to sustain, and to guide His children. But above all, He desires our hearts. He desires worship that flows from gratitude, not desperation alone.
Let us therefore learn from the one grateful leper. Let us not forget God after receiving His blessings. Let our lives be marked by continual worship, constant gratitude, and sincere devotion. May we seek Jesus not merely for His miracles, but for His presence. For He alone is worthy to be sought, loved, and glorified forever.