Day 9

Day 9

Scripture: Proverbs 11:2 NLT- “Pride leads to disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom” 

Observation: We’re called to confess our sins, or anything we are being prideful about, and praise God in the process (he already knows we sin, but we must confess to show him that we acknowledge the sinning taking place). This requires us to be humble, admitting our shortcomings. In the end, we gain the most wisdom from letting go and giving it all to God. 

Application: I am not sure if you are like me or not, but being able to admit I am struggling with something is a huge challenge for me. I was diagnosed with a rare brain condition in 2015 and have had thirteen brain surgeries since then. I have been temporarily paralyzed, unable to bathe myself as an adult (that is a humbling experience, let me tell you!), in the worst pain of my life and not quite sure how I would go on some days. Oh, how this verse speaks to me now as I reflect on the past seven years! I wish I could say I turned directly to God through all my appointments, procedures, and suffering, but I didn’t. I knew I should have, but I let my pride get in the way. I would tell myself, “I can handle this all on my own. I don’t want to bother anyone, even God.” Boy, was I wrong! Proverbs 11:2 calls us to be humble and graceful, and confess to God that we need him. It took me a few years, (six to be exact) to finally realize what this meant.

Taking that first step when I “graduated from my wheelchair” back in 2015 or being able to make it through a procedure with absolutely no anesthesia in 2021 had nothing to do with me and what I could do. Had I let my prideful ways continue, I may not have made it through these struggles (emotionally, mentally, physically, or medically). But thankfully, God has his plan in place, and I finally became wiser as I was humbled through all my medical roller coasters.

I wish I had all the answers (like my kids think I do) or have everything in order (like my coworkers think I do); but the truth is, I have to remember to keep God as the center of everything. He deserves all the glory. With that, we are cleansed. With that, we become wiser. I take full responsibility for not being honest with God in the past, and am ready to recommit myself to his grace and direction to become wiser in 2022, and every year after.

Jesus was the chosen One, God in human form.  He, out of anyone, had the right to be boastful with pride; yet he chose humility during every encounter he had. I must trust that God will see humility in me, just as he saw in his Son. I am so honored to call God my Heavenly Father and praise him every day for all he has done, and continues to do in my life. I yearn to be more Christ-like every day and you can be too! All we have to do is allow God into our daily thoughts and confess to him when we need help or guidance. That is what gives us wisdom.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, sometimes it feels impossible for me to fully give up control of my life to someone else. Please guide me to understand how deep your love is for me so that I can live humbly as your child and not be prideful in my decision-making or thoughts. I cannot do anything alone, but must always have you as my focus. I praise you and thank you for accepting me as a work in progress; someone who is dedicated and committed to honoring your love and sacrifices through confession. Amen.

Going Deeper: 

  • Ask yourself what you are holding back from God currently. Is your pride getting in your way like it did me?
  • Is there an area of your life where you could show more humility, instead of thinking you may be too wise for any help?
  • Proverbs 11:2 can be used in so many aspects of our daily lives.  Pray about it and how it affects a specific situation in yours, especially during your daily slot and spot.
  • Joining a J-Group will change your life. Check out the catalog for our spring semester!

Courtney “Court” Neil / Impressions Team Leader, J-Group Leader

Court joined the Journey family last year and found her family and her forever home. She serves as a Greeter Team Leader on the Impressions Team. Court co-leads the “Anytime” J-Group with two of her favorite friends, Kim & Marqueita. She is also a part of “Java & Jesus” and “Power Couples” J-Groups as a contributing member. Court loves to serve at the many events The Journey hosts (Monthly Food Distributions and the Special Needs Ministry events hold a special place in her heart).


20 Comments
  • Jen Parisi
    Posted at 05:16h, 01 February Reply

    Court! You are amazing! Thank you for sharing your incredible journey. I am so thankful to God that he has allowed our paths to cross! I am looking forward to J Group with you. God is great. He has been with you with every step of your journey.

  • Curryn Henry
    Posted at 05:45h, 01 February Reply

    I love this Court! Thank You!!!

  • Danielle B
    Posted at 06:07h, 01 February Reply

    Your story resonated with me, especially not wanting to “bother” others. Thank you for sharing!

  • mark bucci
    Posted at 06:22h, 01 February Reply

    Courtney, thank you for sharing your experience and journey depending on God.Prayers for your continued healing and growth..

  • Julie Panaro
    Posted at 06:24h, 01 February Reply

    WOW! What you have been through o’s AMAZING! Thank you for sharing this devotional and your story with us.

  • Jayme Rollo
    Posted at 07:06h, 01 February Reply

    Court- your strength and tenacity are such an inspiration to us all. I am so grateful to know you friend. Thank you for sharing your heart with us.

  • Kim Lindell
    Posted at 07:22h, 01 February Reply

    Thanks for sharing your heart and this important truth with us around pride and humility Court! You are an inspiration to so many and your light shines bright!

  • Barbara Harrington
    Posted at 07:25h, 01 February Reply

    Thank you for sharing your devotion,I just love you and the willingness to serve our Lord❤️

  • Omar McNeill
    Posted at 07:27h, 01 February Reply

    Amen!! Thank you, Court.

  • Tom Pine
    Posted at 07:40h, 01 February Reply

    Great reminder this morning Court. Thank you for sharing!

  • Karen Williams
    Posted at 07:41h, 01 February Reply

    Your “Journey” is amazing and so are your words. Reading and knowing about your story is so humbling and I thank you for sharing it and reminding us that he really is all we need!

  • Kim Leigh
    Posted at 08:20h, 01 February Reply

    Court, this was so beautiful! Thank you for your words, your loving tart and the strength to share your story.

  • Stacey Winns
    Posted at 08:51h, 01 February Reply

    Awesome! Thank You!

  • Theresa Messina
    Posted at 09:05h, 01 February Reply

    Court, I knew you were special when we met the very first time at Journey! Your smile is radiant and your love for God and everyone, including me, shines through in EVERY instance. I keep you in my prayers and am so thankful for God introducing me to you! You are a bright spot in my life and I can learn a lot from you so keep shining your beautiful light for all to see! Love you girl.

  • Tabitha Noyes
    Posted at 09:08h, 01 February Reply

    Court, thank you for sharing your beautiful words and your journey! You are truly an inspiration and I am so happy God has blessed me with the opportunities to serve with you and to call you a friend!!

  • Walter Harrington
    Posted at 09:35h, 01 February Reply

    Courtney, I would have never known all that you’ve been through,you have Amazing Faith, Strength & Wisdom and don’t forget that Contagious Smile.Thank you for reminding us to put God first in Everything God bless you love you ❤️ Walt & Barb

  • Michael Herr
    Posted at 11:26h, 01 February Reply

    Thanks for Sharing Courtney! Amazing story and really amazing to see where God has brought you on his strength. I can definitely relate to have a hard time asking others for help in different areas. So glad to hear how you have been putting God first and testing in him and the work he has done in you as a result!

  • Alfred R Ceaser
    Posted at 11:33h, 01 February Reply

    Courtney. Love your honesty and your heartfelt spirit of love for others. May God gi e you all the grace and mercy you need to shine during g some of the toughest trials and troubles you may face. Love you much!

  • Michelle Dello Buono
    Posted at 17:07h, 01 February Reply

    What a powerful message Court. Thank younfor your leadership and service.

  • Andrea Knight
    Posted at 09:29h, 05 February Reply

    All I can say is WOW!! I’m a few days behind as you can see but you touched my heart so deep and you continue to do so every day. You are an inspiration to everyone who knows you! I feel truly blessed to have you in my life and call you a friend! I just love you to pieces!!❤️🙏🏼

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