New Year 2026 Bible Study: "Behold, I Am Doing a New Thing"

This devotion is designed to help you reflect on the past year, embrace God's promise of new beginnings, and set faith-filled goals for 2026. 

Reflection, encourages learning from the past, expressing gratitude, and acknowledging God's faithfulness. This can include discussing past experiences, identifying things to be thankful for, and releasing past regrets through prayer. Scriptures like Lamentations 3:22-23 and Psalm 90:12 can guide this reflection.

Renewal focuses on embracing a new identity in Christ through spiritual transformation. Discussion points may cover how being a "new creation" affects resolutions, leaving old patterns behind, and actively embracing the "new self". Reading 2 Corinthians 5:17 and Ephesians 4:22-24 is suggested. An activity could be planning daily Bible study and prayer for spiritual growth.

Purpose, involves moving forward with intention, recognizing that God has a unique purpose for everyone. This section can explore how God might be leading in new ways and aligning personal goals with God's purpose. Relevant readings include Isaiah 43:18-19, Jeremiah 29:11, and Philippians 3:13-14. Setting a faith-based goal and finding an accountability partner is a possible activity.

Trust involves leaning on God's guidance and finding strength and peace in His unchanging nature. Discussion can address anxieties by casting them on God and leaning on His understanding. Scriptures such as Proverbs 3:5-6, Isaiah 40:31, and Philippians 4:6 is relevant. 

As you step into 2026, this Bible study is designed to help you transition from the reflections of the past into the active promises of the new year. The spiritual landscape for 2026 emphasizes discernment, authority in Christ, and abiding in His presence.

Thematic Focus: "Shine with Purpose"

For 2026, highlight a shift from merely surviving to "shining", letting the light God placed within you radiate outward with warmth and grace.

Part 1: Foundational Scripture

Key Verse: "Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you." Isaiah 60:1 

 Secondary Verses for 2026:

• For Hope: "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." Romans 15:13
• For Abiding: "Abide in me, and I in you... I am the vine; you are the branches." John 15:4-5
• For Newness: "See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?" Isaiah 43:19

Part 2: Bible Study Discussion & Reflection

1. Release the Past Philippians 3:13-14: In 2026, what specific "former things" do you need to stop dwelling on so you can perceive the "new thing" God is doing?
2. Cultivate Pure Discernment: For 2026 emphasize the need for "pure discernment". How can you sharpen your spirit this year to distinguish between God’s voice and the distractions of the world?
3. God’s Name:  YahWeh (YHWH). In 2026, how can you better carry God’s Name onto your daily "battlefields" (work, family, community)? Research and make a list of the names of God and write them somewhere and most important write them upon your heart. Use them in your prayer time, call upon Him using His names and build a deeper, more personal relationship with Him. 

Part 3: Practical 2026 Devotional Plan

To maintain your spiritual momentum throughout the year, consider these structured approaches:

• 5-Day Reading Program: Read your bible. Perhaps read through the entire Bible or New Testament by reading Monday–Friday, leaving weekends for catch-up or deep reflection.
• Chronological Study: Use a Chronological Bible Reading Plan to see events in the order they occurred, providing historical context to your faith.
• Gospel Focus: Dedicate 2026 to "The Story of Jesus, studying His background (Jan-Feb), Early Years (Mar-Apr), and Ministry (May-June).

• Daily Prayer Habit: Create a specific time each day, multiple times a day even to spend moments in prayer with The Lord. Make this a habit.

Part 4: New Year Prayer for 2026

"Lord, as we enter 2026, may Your light rise upon us. Illuminate our paths and strengthen our hearts. Help us to shine not with our own brilliance, but with the radiance of Your love. May this be a year of purpose, clarity, and bold faith. Let our mouths declare Your truth and our lives bring others closer to You. In the mighty name of Jesus Christ, Amen."