The Secret to Consistency in the Life of a Catholic Faster

Aug 14, 2025

Do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Let the day’s own trouble be sufficient for the day.” 

Matthew 6:34

Woman with outstretched arms on a mountain peak facing snow covered mountaintops and clouds.

Spiritual fasting is a powerful tool for drawing closer to God, but staying consistent isn’t always easy. Life changes—seasons shift, travel plans disrupt routines, guests come to stay, and unexpected events throw our schedules off. In these moments, it’s tempting to slip into all-or-nothing thinking: “If I can’t do it perfectly, I won’t do it at all.”

Consistency in spiritual fasting isn’t about perfect conditions—it’s about learning to adapt with the Holy Spirit’s guidance.

In this episode, Beth reveals the key to overcoming that mindset and keeping your fasting commitments strong: spiritual cognitive flexibility.


What is Spiritual Cognitive Flexibility?
Borrowing from the psychological concept of cognitive flexibility, Beth adds a spiritual dimension—inviting the Holy Spirit into the process. Spiritual cognitive flexibility is the ability to adapt your thinking and behavior when life changes, while staying grounded in your values and mission.

Instead of abandoning your fasting because conditions aren’t perfect, you adjust your approach. Maybe you shorten a fast, choose the healthiest option available on the road, or find creative ways to pray when your usual schedule is disrupted.


Real-Life Coaching Example
In this episode, Beth coaches Christine, who is preparing for a multi-day pilgrimage. Christine worries about food quality, unpredictable schedules, heat, fatigue, and staying on track with her fasting.

Through their conversation, Beth helps Christine:

  • Identify fear-based thinking that comes from the enemy.

  • Replace assumptions with trust in God’s provision.

  • Create a compassionate, flexible plan for meals and prayer.

  • See the pilgrimage not as a disruption, but as a holy training ground.

By shifting her mindset, Christine moves from fear to bold confidence—believing she will be loved, energized, and fed by God throughout the journey.


The Takeaway: There is No Wagon
Beth reminds us that there’s no such thing as “falling off the wagon.” The “wagon” is life itself—full of constant change and opportunity to grow. True consistency isn’t rigid perfection; it’s daily faithfulness, even in small ways, no matter the circumstances.

So the next time your fasting rhythm is challenged, invite the Holy Spirit in. Adapt. Adjust. And keep going. Your faithfulness in imperfect conditions will strengthen your spiritual muscles far more than waiting for life to be calm and predictable.

When you listen to this episode, you will walk away encouraged, equipped, and ready to fast with holy flexibility—no matter what life brings.

Help Beth reach her goal of bringing 1 Million Catholics back to the Church 

Please subscribe to the podcast and leave a review! 

Delay and Pray® Links:

Get your copy of Delay and Pray® (book)

The Catholic Fasting Coach

Instagram

Facebook

LinkedIn

subscribe to the
delay and pray

Newsletter

Get your 7-Step Guide to Finally Losing Weight and Gaining Faith!

Butterfly with cross

Copyright 2024 © The Catholic Fasting Coach | PO BOX 363 | Union, Michigan 49130

Grab Your FREE Holiday Spiritual Feasting Guide!

You'll Get

6 Delicious Recipes
10 life-sustaining party tips
Closer connections to friends & family

Check your email for your free Holiday guide!

Pin It on Pinterest