Embracing Newness: Declaring 2026 My Year of Advancement
Juliet Amego
February 4, 2026
A Life of Testimony and Praise: Embracing the Majesty of God Isaac Megbolugbe
Introduction
As I reflect on the Nigerian Baptist Convention’s theme for this year – entering newness through the fruit of the spirit and the gifts of the Holy Spirit – I’m reminded that 2026 is my year of ADVANCEMENT in all areas of life. This isn’t just a declaration; it’s a conviction rooted in faith and determination.
Recently, I had the opportunity to participate in a refreshing 2-day retreat focused on spiritual life advancement. The experience was a timely reminder that knowing biblical mandates is just the starting point – it’s in “doing them” that we truly live the Christian life. Knowledge and actions are different levels of commitment, and I’m committed to putting my faith into practice.
The Path to Advancement
The fruit of the spirit – love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control – are the foundation upon which I’ll build my advancement. These virtues aren’t just ideals; they’re the currency of spiritual growth and the keys to unlocking new levels of success.
As I embark on this journey, I’m reminded that advancement isn’t just about personal gain; it’s about becoming a vessel for God’s glory, impacting both sacred and secular spheres. Whether in my relationships, business, or ministry, I’m positioning myself for breakthroughs.
A Prayer for the Year
As I step into 2026, I pray that I’ll embody the spirit of Psalm 118:17 – “I shall not die, but live, and declare the works of the Lord.” May my actions reflect the transformative power of God’s spirit, and may I be a catalyst for positive change in all areas of life.
Here’s to a year of advancement, growth, and declaring the goodness of God in every sphere of influence!
The Temple of the Holy Spirit: Unlocking the Fruits of God’s Presence
The Bible teaches us that our body is the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). This profound truth is the foundation for leveraging the fruits of the Holy Spirit in our lives. It’s not about us trying harder or striving to be more spiritual; it’s about cooperating with the Holy Spirit, who does the work assigned to Him in us.
The Dynamics of the Holy Spirit’s Work
The Holy Spirit is the One who convicts, transforms, and empowers us to live a life that honors God. When we yield to His presence and work, He produces the fruits of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). These fruits are the manifestation of God’s character in us, not our own efforts.
Practical Implications: Cooperating with the Holy Spirit
So, what does it mean to cooperate with the Holy Spirit? It means:
1. Aligning our spirit with His: Through obedience, we position ourselves to receive the Holy Spirit’s work in us.
2. Living a life of worship: Worship isn’t just singing songs; it’s a lifestyle of honoring God in all we do.
3. Studying the Word of God: Immersing ourselves in Scripture helps us understand God’s heart and will, making us more receptive to the Holy Spirit’s guidance.
The Outcome: A Life Manifesting God’s Fruits
As we cooperate with the Holy Spirit, we’ll begin to see the fruits of God’s presence in our lives. Our relationships will be marked by love, our struggles will be met with patience, and our witness will be characterized by kindness. This is the life God calls us to – one of surrender, obedience, and trust in the Holy Spirit’s transformative power.
A Prayer for Cooperation
Father, thank You for the gift of Your Holy Spirit. Help me cooperate with His work in me, aligning my spirit with Yours. May my life be a temple where Your presence is honored, and the fruits of Your Spirit are manifest. Amen
Breaking Camp and Advancing: Embracing the Holy Spirit’s Work in 2026
As we stand at the threshold of a new year, we’re reminded that our spiritual journey is a journey of advancement, not stagnation. Deuteronomy 1:6-8 presents a powerful picture: the Israelites, having lingered at Horeb, are called to “break camp and advance” into the land God has promised them.
Horeb: A Place of Transition
Horeb represents a place of transition, where our current state – whether one of spiritual sweetness or dryness – is not the destination. God says, “You’ve stayed long enough at this mountain. Move forward.” (Deuteronomy 1:6) This is a call to leave our comfort zones, our familiar patterns, and step into the unknown, trusting that God has prepared a land of abundance and promise.
Empowered for Advancement
Acts 1:8 reminds us that we’ve received power when the Holy Spirit comes upon us, enabling us to be witnesses for God’s kingdom. This empowerment is not just for spiritual pursuits but for every area of life:
– Spiritually: Galatians 5:22-23 promise the fruit of the Spirit will guide us.
– Financially: Genesis 26:12-14 shows God’s blessing on our endeavors.
– Protection: Luke 10:19 gives us authority over the enemy’s power.
– Guidance: Psalms 91, 100, and 103 become our declarations of faith.
Practical Steps for Advancement
To embrace the Holy Spirit’s work in us:
1. Cultivate spiritual habits: Fasting, praying, studying, and meditating on God’s Word.
2. Engage in ministry: Evangelism, discipleship, prayer, and service.
3. Prioritize family and community: Invest in relationships and responsibilities.
4. Be a blessing: Involve yourself in socio-cultural activities and nation-building.
5. Think globally: Focus on God’s international kingdom.
Declarations for 2026
– I am empowered by the Holy Spirit to live a life of spiritual fruitfulness.
– God’s blessings of Abraham are mine, and I prosper.
– I walk in authority over sickness, disease, and failure.
– Psalm 91 is my guide, and I live in God’s protective care.
– I am a witness for God’s kingdom, locally and globally.
Let’s break camp and advance, trusting the Holy Spirit to lead us into a year of unprecedented growth and impact.
Concluding Remarks: Embracing Newness and Stepping into Advancement
As we conclude this journey of reflection and declaration, we’re reminded that 2026 is not just a new year, but a divine appointment with destiny. The themes we’ve explored – entering newness through the fruit of the Spirit, cooperating with the Holy Spirit’s work, and breaking camp to advance – are the keys to unlocking a year of unprecedented growth and impact.
A Call to Action
As you close reading this article, I invite you to join me in declaring 2026 as your year of advancement. Let’s commit to:
– Yielding to the Holy Spirit’s transformative power
– Cultivating spiritual habits that deepen our relationship with God
– Engaging in ministry and service, impacting our communities and beyond
– Trusting God’s guidance and protection in every area of life
A Final Declaration
I declare that 2026 will be a year of:
– Spiritual fruitfulness and growth
– Divine empowerment and guidance
– Breakthroughs in relationships, career, and ministry
– Unwavering trust in God’s sovereignty and goodness
Join me in embracing this newness and stepping into the advancement God has prepared for us. Let’s break camp and move forward, trusting the Holy Spirit to lead us into a year of unprecedented growth and impact.
Juliet Amego, a friend of GIVA Ministries International and a respected businesswoman in Abuja, Nigeria, shares her insights on the leadership of the Nigerian Baptist Convention, which sets the theme for the convention and inspires local churches to set their own themes. The 2026 Convention theme, “Entering newness through the fruit of the spirit and gifts, and the Holy Spirit” has inspired her to declare 2026 personally as her year of advancement in all areas of her life.
As a retired federal government executive and former director at the Federal Ministry of Finance, Juliet brings a unique perspective to her faith. A devoted member of the First Baptist Church Garki Abuja and the Women Missionary Society, Juliet is passionate about spreading the Gospel. She’s actively involved in evangelism, discipleship, and prayer ministries, inspiring others with her testimony.
Juliet’s commitment to her faith and her community is a testament to the transformative power of God’s presence in her life and inspiration to others in their lives.
