The Higher Pursuit Podcast

Cecily Lachapelle
  • 5.0 (6)
  • Christianity
  • Updated Weekly

Welcome to Higher Pursuit, where we walk together on the journey of pursuing our best in Christ. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by life’s demands, facing self-doubt, or longing for deeper purpose, this podcast is for you. Here, we tackle real struggles—from emotional resilience to spiritual growth—drawing strength from faith and biblical wisdom. Inspired by Paul’s image of the Christian life as a race for an eternal prize, I’m here as your Coach, offering encouragement, practical guidance, and support to build your endurance and strengthen your spirit. Let’s press on together, with our eyes on Jesus, toward the life God has called us to.

  1. 3d ago

    Word Alive: Understanding Jesus' Most Important Sermon | Matthew 5 - the Beatitudes

    Send us Fan Mail What if the Beatitudes are more than a list of blessings? What if they're actually Jesus' roadmap for becoming more like Him? When most people read the Sermon on the Mount, they focus on what Jesus said. But in this episode of Word Alive: How to Study Your Bible, we'll learn how to study what He said by looking at the original audience, the historical context, literary patterns, and Old Testament connections that reveal the incredible depth of Matthew 5. As we begin our study of the Beatitudes, you'll discover that Jesus wasn't simply giving us eight virtues to admire—He was inviting us into a transformed way of living that begins with humility and leads to a life that reflects His heart. You'll discover: Why understanding Jesus' audience changes the way we read the Sermon on the MountHow Matthew intentionally presents Jesus as the greater MosesWhy mountains play such an important role throughout Matthew's GospelWhat a chiasm is and how recognizing biblical patterns can deepen your studyWhat the word "blessed" (makarios) really meansWhy righteousness is more than outward behaviorHow the Beatitudes reveal a progression of spiritual growthWhat it means to be poor in spirit, mourn, be meek, and hunger for righteousnessKey Takeaways Context transforms understanding.Matthew intentionally points us to Jesus as the greater Moses.The Beatitudes describe the character Christ forms in His disciples.True righteousness flows from a heart that loves God.Spiritual growth begins with recognizing our complete dependence upon Jesus.If this episode encourages you, would you take a moment to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who wants to grow deeper in God's Word? Your support helps more people discover the life-changing truth of Scripture through The Higher Pursuit. Until next time, keep pursuing Him—because He is always pursuing you. Support the Show  Stay Connected & Go Deeper! Loved this episode? There's more where that came from!  Connect with me for more faith-filled encouragement, practical Bible studies, and exclusive resources. Explore more + free resources here: https://linktr.ee/cecily.lachapelle  Watch on YouTube Visit my website Follow on social media for weekly encouragement Download Today's Handout: https://higherpursuitministries.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Understanding-Jesus-Most-Important-Sermon_Handout.pdf Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/live/XnjdJ9cGGak?si=uxmKmMHB44FIBEc8 Your journey doesn't stop here—let's keep growing together! Support the show 🌟 Stay Connected & Go Deeper! 🌟 Loved this episode? There’s more where that came from! 🎧✨ Connect with me for more faith-filled encouragement, practical insights, and exclusive content: Explore more + free resources here: https://linktr.ee/cecily.lachapelle ✅ Watch on YouTube ✅ Dive into my website ✅ Follow on social media for more inspiration Your journey doesn’t stop here—let’s keep growing together! 💛 Click the link now! 👆 ✅ Please consider supporting the show with a monthly donation. 💛  https://www.buzzsprout.com/2138819/support

  2. Jul 24

    Why You're Still Confused By The Bible

    Send us Fan Mail "Why You're Still Confused By The Bible" (The Way You Read the Bible Matters)Many Christians sincerely love God—but still struggle to understand His Word. With more Bible apps, podcasts, devotionals, and teaching resources than ever before, why is biblical literacy declining? In this episode of The Higher Pursuit Podcast, we're talking about one of the most important questions every believer should ask: How am I approaching Scripture? Drawing inspiration from the opening chapters of Women of the Word by Jen Wilkin, we'll discuss: • Four common mistakes Christians make when studying the Bible • Why reading for application before interpretation often leads to misunderstanding • Why context matters • The danger of treating Scripture like a collection of inspirational quotes • How knowing God—not just collecting verses—transforms our lives Most importantly, we'll discover why Scripture was written first and foremost to reveal God. The Bible wasn't primarily written to answer the question, "Who am I?" It was written to answer the question, "Who is God?" And once we rightly know Him, we finally understand who we are.If you've ever felt intimidated by Bible study, wondered where to begin, or desired a deeper relationship with God through His Word, this episode is for you.  Bring your Bible. Grab a notebook. Come with an open heart. If this ministry has encouraged you, I would be honored if you would:  Subscribe Like this video Leave a comment Share it with someone who wants to grow deeper in God's Word Thank you for being part of the Higher Pursuit community. I'm grateful you're here. Support the show 🌟 Stay Connected & Go Deeper! 🌟 Loved this episode? There’s more where that came from! 🎧✨ Connect with me for more faith-filled encouragement, practical insights, and exclusive content: Explore more + free resources here: https://linktr.ee/cecily.lachapelle ✅ Watch on YouTube ✅ Dive into my website ✅ Follow on social media for more inspiration Your journey doesn’t stop here—let’s keep growing together! 💛 Click the link now! 👆 ✅ Please consider supporting the show with a monthly donation. 💛  https://www.buzzsprout.com/2138819/support

  3. Jul 17

    What if your ordinary life is exactly where Jesus plans to call you into something extraordinary?

    Send us Fan Mail So many people believe God only uses the exceptionally gifted, the highly educated, or the spiritually mature. But when Jesus began His public ministry, He intentionally sought out ordinary fishermen, overlooked regions, and everyday people—and He changed the world through them. In this episode of the Word Alive series, we continue our verse-by-verse study through the Gospel of Matthew as we explore Matthew 4:12–25. Together, we'll discover how Jesus fulfills prophecy, moves toward people with purpose, and calls ordinary men and women to become His disciples. You'll discover: Why Jesus began His ministry in Galilee—and why that mattersHow Matthew proves Jesus is the promised MessiahWhat Jesus really meant when He said, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near"Why Jesus chose fishermen instead of religious leadersWhat it means to become a "fisher of people"The cost—and incredible reward—of following JesusWhy Jesus' ministry of teaching, preaching, and healing is still significant todayHow God specializes in calling ordinary people into extraordinary purposeWhether you've been following Jesus for decades or are just beginning your faith journey, this study will encourage you to recognize His invitation to follow Him more closely and trust His purpose for your life. Scriptures Covered Matthew 4:12–25Isaiah 9:1–7Mark 1:14–20Luke 4:14–15Luke 5:1–11John 1:35–42Key Takeaways Jesus always moves toward people with purpose.God often chooses the people and places the world overlooks.Following Jesus often requires leaving something behind.Every disciple is called to become more like the Rabbi.Jesus still calls ordinary people into extraordinary purpose.If this episode encourages you, would you take a moment to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs the reminder that God can use them? Your support helps more people discover God's Word through The Higher Pursuit. Until next time, keep pursuing Him—because He is always pursuing you. Support the show 🌟 Stay Connected & Go Deeper! 🌟 Loved this episode? There’s more where that came from! 🎧✨ Connect with me for more faith-filled encouragement, practical insights, and exclusive content: Explore more + free resources here: https://linktr.ee/cecily.lachapelle ✅ Watch on YouTube ✅ Dive into my website ✅ Follow on social media for more inspiration Your journey doesn’t stop here—let’s keep growing together! 💛 Click the link now! 👆 ✅ Please consider supporting the show with a monthly donation. 💛  https://www.buzzsprout.com/2138819/support

  4. Jul 12

    When Life Hits Hard: Turning Pain into Purpose and Setback into Strength

    Send us Fan Mail Guest: Holly Sweat-Raper Life has a way of bringing seasons we never expected—loss, heartbreak, disappointment, rejection, health struggles, financial pressure, and dreams that seem to die. The question isn't if we'll face pain, but what we'll do with it. In this encouraging episode of The Higher Pursuit Podcast, I sit down with psychotherapist, bestselling author, and founder of Created4Success, Holly Sweat-Raper, to discuss how God can transform our deepest wounds into places of healing, purpose, and impact. Drawing from more than two decades of helping people overcome limiting beliefs—and from her own journey through devastating loss, health crises, and heartbreak—Holly shares practical wisdom for renewing your mind, rebuilding your confidence, and learning to live in victory even when life feels overwhelming. Together, we explore: How to transform pain into purposeThe difference between God's voice and shame or self-blameWhy renewing your mind is essential for lasting healingCommon lies that keep people trapped in defeat—and the biblical truth that sets us freePractical steps to rebuild your life after loss, rejection, or disappointmentHow to rediscover your identity and purpose when life knocks you downWhat it truly means to live in victory while still walking through difficult seasonsDuring our conversation, I also share how many of these same biblical principles became the foundation for my own healing journey and eventually inspired my book, Repurpose Your Pain. My prayer is that this episode helps you discover that your story isn't over and that God never wastes your pain. Connect with Holly Sweat-Raper Follow Holly: https://hollysweatraper.com/ Resources Mentioned Living in Victory, Not Defeat by Holly Sweat-RaperRepurpose Your Pain by Cecily LachapelleSupport the show 🌟 Stay Connected & Go Deeper! 🌟 Loved this episode? There’s more where that came from! 🎧✨ Connect with me for more faith-filled encouragement, practical insights, and exclusive content: Explore more + free resources here: https://linktr.ee/cecily.lachapelle ✅ Watch on YouTube ✅ Dive into my website ✅ Follow on social media for more inspiration Your journey doesn’t stop here—let’s keep growing together! 💛 Click the link now! 👆 ✅ Please consider supporting the show with a monthly donation. 💛  https://www.buzzsprout.com/2138819/support

  5. Jul 2

    Word Alive Week 5: Victory in the Wilderness (Matthew 4)

    Send us Fan Mail Have you ever opened your Bible and wondered... "Where do I even begin?" "How do I understand what's really happening in this passage?" "How do I apply it to my own life?" If you've ever felt that way, you're not alone—and this week's Higher Pursuit Livestream is for you. Join me as we continue our Word Alive study through the Gospel of Matthew by diving into one of the most powerful chapters in Scripture: Matthew 4. Together we'll explore: • Why Jesus' temptation in the wilderness matters far more than many of us realize. • How Jesus succeeded where Israel failed. • What Jesus' victory means for YOUR identity today. • Practical Bible study tools that will help you uncover deeper truths every time you open God's Word. • How to use commentaries, BibleHub, and other trusted resources without becoming overwhelmed. Most importantly, we'll discover this life-changing truth: Jesus didn't simply overcome temptation to give us an example. He overcame it as our Representative. Because we are in Christ, His victory becomes our victory. Whether you're brand new to studying the Bible or you've been reading it for decades, I believe you'll leave encouraged, equipped, and excited to dig deeper into God's Word.  Don't forget to download this week's handout (linked below). Invite a friend, bring your Bible, and join the conversation in the chat. I can't wait to study with you! Link to handout: https://higherpursuitministries.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Week-5-Handout.pdf YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/live/cUdSvvXnfgc?si=CjiYPr-uZGuZ5s_C Support the show 🌟 Stay Connected & Go Deeper! 🌟 Loved this episode? There’s more where that came from! 🎧✨ Connect with me for more faith-filled encouragement, practical insights, and exclusive content: Explore more + free resources here: https://linktr.ee/cecily.lachapelle ✅ Watch on YouTube ✅ Dive into my website ✅ Follow on social media for more inspiration Your journey doesn’t stop here—let’s keep growing together! 💛 Click the link now! 👆 ✅ Please consider supporting the show with a monthly donation. 💛  https://www.buzzsprout.com/2138819/support

  6. Jun 26

    Word Alive: How to Study Your Bible (Week 4)

    Send us Fan Mail THE WORD ALIVE | Week 4: "This Is My Beloved Son" | Matthew 3:10-17 Why was Jesus baptized if He had no sin to repent of? In Week 4 of The Word Alive, we continue our journey through the Gospel of Matthew and discover one of the most powerful moments in Jesus' life and ministry—the day He stepped into the Jordan River and the Father declared: "This is My beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased." Together we'll explore: ✅ Why Jesus insisted on being baptized ✅ What it means to "fulfill all righteousness" ✅ The incredible Isaiah 53 connection ✅ The Trinity revealed at Jesus' baptism ✅ Why the Holy Spirit descended like a dove ✅ The Old Testament prophecies hidden in the Father's words ✅ Why God's affirmation came before Jesus performed a single miracle You'll also learn practical Bible study skills using BibleHub.com as I demonstrate how to: 📖 Follow cross-references from the New Testament into the Old Testament 📖 Compare Gospel accounts side-by-side 📖 Use study tools that bring Scripture to life DOWNLOAD YOUR HANDOUT HERE: https://higherpursuitministries.com/w... Whether you're new to studying the Bible or have been reading it for years, my prayer is that you'll leave with a deeper understanding of God's Word and a greater confidence in studying it for yourself. 📌 Resources: www.biblehub.com 🌐 Website: higherpursuitministries.com ✍️ Substack: cecilylachapelle.substack.com 🎙️ Podcast: The Higher Pursuit Podcast If this teaching encourages you, please like, subscribe, and share it with someone who wants to grow deeper in God's Word. Support the show 🌟 Stay Connected & Go Deeper! 🌟 Loved this episode? There’s more where that came from! 🎧✨ Connect with me for more faith-filled encouragement, practical insights, and exclusive content: Explore more + free resources here: https://linktr.ee/cecily.lachapelle ✅ Watch on YouTube ✅ Dive into my website ✅ Follow on social media for more inspiration Your journey doesn’t stop here—let’s keep growing together! 💛 Click the link now! 👆 ✅ Please consider supporting the show with a monthly donation. 💛  https://www.buzzsprout.com/2138819/support

  7. Jun 12

    The Word Alive | Week 3: Herod, the Pharisees & the Voice in the Wilderness

    Send us Fan Mail How to Study Your Bible Series | The Higher Pursuit Podcast What do a murderous king, a wild man in the desert, and two groups of religious leaders who despised each other have to do with your faith today? More than you'd think. In Week 3 of The Word Alive: How to Study Your Bible, Cecily takes you deep into Matthew Chapters 2 and 3 — and what unfolds isn't just ancient history. It's a mirror. In This Episode, You'll Discover: The chilling parallel between Herod and Pharaoh — and what Matthew is quietly saying about what Israel had becomeWhy Jesus began His life as a refugee, and why that detail is far from incidentalThe truth about John the Baptist that most people overlook — including a fascinating connection to a mysterious desert community that may have shaped himWho the Pharisees and Sadducees really were, where they came from, and why they matter to your everyday spiritual lifeThe one question from this passage that might make you uncomfortable — but could change how you see yourself as a believerThe Question This Episode Will Ask You: Four hundred years of silence. Then a lone voice in the wilderness calls out the most powerful religious leaders in Israel and essentially says: You're not who you think you are. The Pharisees had added 613 man-made rules on top of God's Word — and called it holiness. The Sadducees had quietly traded their convictions for comfort and political safety. John didn't let them hide behind their titles or their traditions. He won't let you either. After You Listen: Open your Bible to Matthew 3. Read it slowly — and ask yourself these two questions: Where have I added my own "fence laws" to my faith — elevating tradition or religious performance above what God actually requires?Is there any area of my life where I've compromised my convictions to protect my comfort, my finances, or what others think of me?Sit with the answers. Then bring them to God honestly. That's not just Bible study — that's transformation. A New Place to Go Deeper If this conversation resonates with you, Cecily is now sharing additional reflections, teachings, and spiritual insights on Substack — a space dedicated to helping believers pursue a deeper, more vibrant walk with God. There you'll find both short reflections and longer teachings that expand on many of the ideas shared in the Livestream.  Follow along here Connect with Cecily  Podcast: The Higher Pursuit Podcast Website: higherpursuitministries.com Substack: cecilylachapelle.substack.com If this episode encouraged you, follow the podcast and share it with someone who might need this message today. Sometimes the simplest invitation can change more than we realize.  If The Higher Pursuit Podcast has blessed, encouraged, strengthened, or liberated you, would you consider partnering with Cecily to keep it going? Every episode takes time, prayer, and financial resources — from hosting fees to equipment, editing, and beyond. Your monthly support helps cover these costs so she can continue bringing you life-giving, faith-building content. Together, we can keep spreading the truth of God's Word and helping believers step into the fullness of their calling.  Sign up today and let's pursue higher together! Support the show 🌟 Stay Connected & Go Deeper! 🌟 Loved this episode? There’s more where that came from! 🎧✨ Connect with me for more faith-filled encouragement, practical insights, and exclusive content: Explore more + free resources here: https://linktr.ee/cecily.lachapelle ✅ Watch on YouTube ✅ Dive into my website ✅ Follow on social media for more inspiration Your journey doesn’t stop here—let’s keep growing together! 💛 Click the link now! 👆 ✅ Please consider supporting the show with a monthly donation. 💛  https://www.buzzsprout.com/2138819/support

  8. Jun 5

    Word Alive: How to Study Your Bible (Week 2)

    Send us Fan Mail You've read the Bible. You've heard the stories. But do you ever feel like you're missing something — like there's a deeper layer you can't quite reach on your own? Maybe you've wondered: ➡️Why does Matthew's gospel feel so different from the others? ➡️What did it actually mean for Jesus to be called "King of the Jews" — and why did that phrase carry so much weight? ➡️How do I study the Bible in a way that actually changes how I live? This week on Word Alive (Week 2), we're going deeper into Matthew 1–2 — and the picture of Jesus that emerges is stunning. We'll uncover why Matthew includes the details around Jesus' birth that he does, what the Magi's arrival really reveals about God's plan, and how one Hebrew word — shema — might completely reframe what it means to "hear" from God. You'll walk away with: ✅ A clearer picture of Jesus as King and Messiah ✅ Practical Bible study tools you can use this week (BibleHub Interlinear, Atlas, cross-referencing) ✅ A deeper understanding of the 400 years of silence — and why everything breaks open in Matthew 2 ✅ Free resources, handouts, and a reading plan — all in one place 📂 Grab your resources & handouts: https://higherpursuitministries.com/r... Bring your Bible, a journal, and colored pencils if you have them. This is a study session, not just a sermon — come ready to dig in. 🎙️ New to streaming or looking to level up? Check out StreamYard and get $10 discount! 😍 https://streamyard.com/pal/d/54417800... Support the show 🌟 Stay Connected & Go Deeper! 🌟 Loved this episode? There’s more where that came from! 🎧✨ Connect with me for more faith-filled encouragement, practical insights, and exclusive content: Explore more + free resources here: https://linktr.ee/cecily.lachapelle ✅ Watch on YouTube ✅ Dive into my website ✅ Follow on social media for more inspiration Your journey doesn’t stop here—let’s keep growing together! 💛 Click the link now! 👆 ✅ Please consider supporting the show with a monthly donation. 💛  https://www.buzzsprout.com/2138819/support

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About

Welcome to Higher Pursuit, where we walk together on the journey of pursuing our best in Christ. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by life’s demands, facing self-doubt, or longing for deeper purpose, this podcast is for you. Here, we tackle real struggles—from emotional resilience to spiritual growth—drawing strength from faith and biblical wisdom. Inspired by Paul’s image of the Christian life as a race for an eternal prize, I’m here as your Coach, offering encouragement, practical guidance, and support to build your endurance and strengthen your spirit. Let’s press on together, with our eyes on Jesus, toward the life God has called us to.

Information

  • Creator
    Cecily Lachapelle
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    77
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Higher Pursuit Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Higher Pursuit Podcast