Seeking & Fasting in Transition
Fasting Through a Season of Transition: Seeking God’s Guidance for Our New Pastor
As a church family at the Church of Severn Run, we are entering a season or change as we look ahead to what God has planned for our future leadership. Times like this can stir up many emotions—gratitude, uncertainty, hope, and anticipation. In the midst of it all, we know one thing is certain: God is faithful to guide His people when we seek Him wholeheartedly.
One of the most powerful ways we can draw near to Him during this transition is through fasting and prayer. Fasting isn’t just about going without food—it’s about creating space in our lives to hear God more clearly, humble ourselves before Him, and align our hearts with His will.
Let’s explore a few types of fasting and how they can help us in this moment:
- The Complete Fast
This is the type of fasting we often see in Scripture where a person abstains from all food and sometimes even water for a set period of time. (see Esther 4:16, Acts 9:9) While not everyone is physically able to do this, a complete fast—done for a short period and with wisdom—can be a way to demonstrate deep dependence on God.
How it helps now: It reminds us that our ultimate need is not a pastor or even our plans, but God Himself. He is our true Shepherd.
- The Partial Fast (Daniel Fast)
In Daniel 10:3, Daniel chose to eat no meat, sweets, or rich foods, focusing instead on simple plant-based meals while he prayed. This type of fast involves giving up certain foods or pleasures in order to devote oneself to prayer.
How it helps now: A Daniel-style fast encourages ongoing prayer over weeks or months, which can mirror the length of our pastoral search. It gives us a daily reminder to lift up the committee, our church body, and the future pastor.
- The Intermittent Fast
This is when you fast for a certain number of hours each day or on specific days each week. Many believers today practice fasting from sunrise to sunset, breaking the fast in the evening with a simple meal.
How it helps now: It builds consistency in prayer. As we grow in discipline, we also grow in sensitivity to the Spirit’s leading as we seek discernment for our next shepherd.
- The Non-Food Fast
Not everyone can safely fast from food, and that’s okay. We can choose to give up social media, television, shopping, or another daily comfort that often takes our attention. The time and focus gained can then be turned toward God.
How it helps now: It helps us quiet the noise around us so we can clearly hear God’s voice as He prepares the right leader for us.
Why Fast During This Transition?
- To Seek God’s Will – We want to be certain that the pastor we choose the one God has chosen to shepherd our flock.
- To Strengthen Unity – As we fast and pray together, our church family will be drawn closer in spirit and purpose.
- To Prepare Our Hearts – Change is not always easy. Fasting softens our hearts and builds trust in God’s plan.
- To Cover the Future Pastor in Prayer – Even before we know their name, God does. We can begin interceding for them now.
Moving Forward Together
Join us on October 21st as we dedicate this day to fasting from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. We will continue culminate at 6 pm by praying, wherever you are, for the Pastor Selection Team.
As we walk through this transition, I encourage you to prayerfully consider to what type of fast the Lord may be calling you.