The Higher Pursuit Podcast

Cecily Lachapelle
  • 5.0 (7)
  • 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. Sep 25

    Judgment or Discernment? How to Know the Difference

    Send us Fan Mail Have you ever felt a check in your spirit about someone—but ignored it because you were afraid you were judging them? Or have you called something “discernment,” only to have the Holy Spirit later reveal that it was actually judgment? In this Matthew 7 Bible study, we tackle one of Jesus’ most quoted—and often misunderstood—commands: “Do not judge.” What did Jesus actually mean? And how do we reconcile that command with His instruction to recognize false prophets by their fruit? We’ll explore the difference between biblical discernment and self-righteous judgment, why Jesus tells us to examine the log in our own eye first, and what it means to avoid “casting your pearls before swine.” I’ll also take you into an original-language Bible word study of anakrinō in 1 Corinthians 2:14 and show you how to use Greek word studies, context, and Scripture to develop Spirit-led discernment for yourself. But Matthew 7 ultimately brings us to an even deeper question. Jesus describes people who prophesied, cast out demons, and performed mighty works in His name—yet He said: “I never knew you.” Could we become so focused on doing things FOR Jesus that we neglect our life WITH Jesus? In this episode, we'll talk about spiritual fruit, false prophets, the narrow road, knowing Jesus, walking in love, and what mature Christian discipleship actually looks like. Your Higher Pursuit Challenge: Choose one word from Matthew 7 this week and do your own word study. Don't just listen—dig into the Word for yourself. #Matthew7 #BiblicalDiscernment #ChristianDiscernment #BibleStudy #DoNotJudge #JudgingOthers #SermonOnTheMount #HowToStudyTheBible #BibleTeaching #ChristianLiving #SpiritualGrowth #KnowJesus #HigherPursuit 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. Sep 18

    Make the Decision | How to grow in discernment, stop overthinking & move forward

    Send us Fan Mail Are you so afraid of making the wrong decision that you’ve stopped moving forward? Maybe you’ve prayed, asked God for direction, and waited for confirmation—but now you’re caught in overthinking, second-guessing, and wondering how to know God’s will. In this episode of The Higher Pursuit Podcast, Cecily Lachapelle talks with pastor, author, and speaker Brenda Seefeldt about biblical discernment, Christian decision-making, overcoming perfectionism, and learning to trust God enough to take the next faithful step. Brenda shares a powerful truth: “God is not fragile.” Our confidence doesn’t have to rest in our ability to make every decision perfectly. It can rest in the faithfulness of the God who leads, corrects, and redeems. IN THIS EPISODE: • How to distinguish discernment from overthinking • What to do when God doesn’t seem to be giving you a clear answer • How perfectionism and fear keep us stuck • Whether there can be more than one “right” decision • What to do when you’re afraid you’ve made the wrong choice • Why you need a trusted “life team” when making important decisions • How to stop second-guessing and take the next faithful step YOUR TAKEAWAY When you’re facing a difficult decision: NAME IT. DISCERN IT. CONFIRM IT. MOVE ON IT. You don’t need to see the entire road before you move. At some point, discernment requires a decision. Your confidence isn’t in your ability to make the perfect decision. Your confidence is in a faithful God who can lead you, correct you, and redeem your imperfect progress. Know someone who is struggling with a decision right now? Share this episode with them. CONNECT WITH BRENDA SEEFELDT Brenda: https://bravester.com/ Larger Story Church: https://largerstory.church/ Bible Study/Resources: https://bravester.com/trust-issues-with-god-bible-study/ Social: https://www.facebook.com/bseefeldt CONNECT WITH CECILY  Get Repurpose Your Pain: [Book link] The Higher Pursuit on YouTube: [YouTube link] Website: [Website link] The Higher Pursuit on Substack: [Substack link] If this episode encouraged you, follow The Higher Pursuit, leave a rating or review, and share it with someone who needs encouragement to stop second-guessing and move forward. 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. Sep 11

    Stop Worrying About Tomorrow: What Jesus Says About Anxiety | Matt. 6:16-34

    Send us Fan Mail What does Jesus say about anxiety, worry, and fear about the future? In Matthew 6, Jesus tells us, “Do not be anxious about tomorrow”—but He doesn’t simply tell us to stop worrying. He shows us why we can trust our Heavenly Father and what to do with an anxious mind instead. Join me LIVE for Week 13 of the Word Alive series as we finish Matthew 6 and take a deeper look at Jesus’ teaching on anxiety, trusting God, seeking first the Kingdom, and learning to live one day at a time. We’ll discover: Why what we treasure is often connected to what we worry about What Jesus teaches us through the birds and the flowers The meaning of the Greek word merimnaō, translated anxious or worry Four reasons Jesus gives us not to worry What it means to “seek first the Kingdom of God” How Philippians 4:6–7 teaches us to redirect anxiety through prayer, thanksgiving, and trust Why we need to stop trying to live tomorrow today Jesus never promised us a trouble-free tomorrow. But He reminds us that we have a Father who already knows what we need. So you don’t need tomorrow’s answers today. You don’t need tomorrow’s provision today. You don’t need tomorrow’s strength today. You need today’s grace for today’s trouble. If you’re walking through an anxious season, bring your prayer needs with you. At the end of the livestream, we’ll take time to pray together—surrendering the things we cannot control and asking the Holy Spirit to turn our attention back toward Jesus and the faithfulness of our Father. 📖 SCRIPTURES: Matthew 6:16–34 • Philippians 4:6–7 • Isaiah 26:3 📥 DOWNLOAD THE WEEK 13 HANDOUT: https://higherpursuitministries.com/w... 💌 JOIN MY EMAIL LIST: Become a free subscriber at Cecily Lachapelle’s Substack to receive livestream reminders, handouts, and my monthly note. Substsack: cecilylachapelle.substack.com If you want to grow in your understanding of Scripture and pursue deeper intimacy with Jesus, subscribe to The Higher Pursuit and join us for the Word Alive series. Tomorrow belongs to Him. Today, we seek Him. The Higher Pursuit Nurturing your faith. Sharpening your endurance. #BibleStudy #Anxiety #Worry #Matthew6 #TrustGod #SeekFirstTheKingdom #Jesus #ChristianLiving #SermonOnTheMount #anxiety #cureforanxiety #christianpodcast #ChristianPodcaster 🎙️ 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

  4. Sep 4

    Why Isn’t God Answering My Prayers? | What Jesus Really Taught About Prayer

    Send us Fan Mail Have you ever wondered, “Why isn’t God answering my prayers?” Maybe you want to pray but struggle with how to pray, what to say, or how to keep believing when you’ve prayed for something for months—or even years—with no visible answer. In this episode of The Higher Pursuit Podcast, we’re opening Matthew 6 to discover what Jesus actually taught about prayer, the Lord’s Prayer, unanswered prayer, and how to develop a deeper, more confident prayer life. Before Jesus taught His disciples how to pray, He taught them about the heart behind prayer. Prayer isn’t about finding the perfect words or mastering the right technique—it’s about relationship with our Father. We’ll also discover that the Lord’s Prayer isn’t simply a prayer to recite. It gives us a powerful pattern for prayer: Relationship → Worship → Surrender → Provision → Forgiveness → Release → Guidance → Protection And then we’ll tackle the difficult question: What happens when we pray and the answer doesn’t seem to come? In this episode, you’ll discover: Why Jesus says “when you pray” rather than ifHow to use the Lord’s Prayer as a practical prayer outlineWhat Jesus meant by “ask, seek, and knock”What Scripture teaches about unanswered prayerWhy delay does not automatically mean denialHow to keep praying without losing heartMaybe you’ve stopped asking because you’ve been disappointed. Maybe there’s a person, promise, situation, or seemingly impossible circumstance you’ve stopped bringing before God. Could God be inviting you to ask again? Key Scriptures Matthew 6:5–15 • Matthew 7:7–8 • Luke 11:1–13 • Luke 18:1–8 • John 15:7 • Philippians 4:6–7 • Hebrews 4:16 • James 4:2–3 • 1 John 5:14–15 If this episode encourages you, follow The Higher Pursuit Podcast, leave a rating or review, and share it with someone who needs encouragement to keep praying. The Higher Pursuit Nurturing your faith. Sharpening your endurance. 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

  5. Sep 1

    Have you lost your spiritual Edge

    Send us Fan Mail Have you ever felt like you've lost your spiritual edge? You still love God, but maybe your hunger isn't as strong, you've become distracted, or your spiritual senses just don't feel as sharp as they once did. In Week 10 of Word Alive, we're going deeper into Jesus' declaration: “You are the salt of the earth… You are the light of the world.” We'll uncover the surprising connection between salt and covenant, what Jesus meant by salt losing its “savour,” and the Greek word mōrainō—which connects losing our saltiness with becoming dull or foolish. And that raises an important question: If the opposite of foolishness is wisdom, and the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, could maintaining the fear of the Lord be part of how we maintain our spiritual edge? In this episode, you'll discover: What Jesus really meant by salt and lightThe biblical significance of the covenant of saltHow we can become spiritually dull—and how to regain our edgeWhy staying close to Jesus is the key to maintaining our “saltiness”What it practically means to be salt and light in your family, workplace, community, and nationThis week's challenge: Where have you become spiritually dull—and where is God asking you to stop hiding your light? Stay close to Jesus. Keep Him first. And live like what He says you already are. Key Scriptures: Matthew 5:13–16; Leviticus 2:13; Numbers 18:19; Proverbs 9:10; Isaiah 42:6; Isaiah 49:6 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/live/nxxrhyggjSc?si=s-RrwA1AUJsTwF5E Download the Companion Handout: https://higherpursuitministries.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Have-You-Lost-Your-Spiritual-Edge-WA-Week-10.pdf 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. Aug 14

    The Beatitudes: What Are You Hungry For?

    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-Se Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/live/XnjdJ9cGGak?si=uxmKmMHB44FIBEc8rmon_Handout-2.pdf 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

  7. Aug 7

    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

  8. 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

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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
    83
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Higher Pursuit Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Higher Pursuit Podcast

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