Episode 46 - Redeemed, Restored, Repurposed with Cheryl Schuermann

Date: September 24, 2024
Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Cheryl Schuermann

 

Story Highlight:

We're excited to welcome Cheryl Schuermann, author of Farmhouse Devotions: God’s Glory in the Ordinary, to this episode of "The Women Behind the Words." This year, Cheryl's book was honored as the 2024 Devotional Book of the Year at The Golden Scroll Awards Banquet. Her devotional takes readers on a heartfelt journey, sharing the real-life story that God wove into the construction of her family's farmhouse.

Many years ago, Cheryl's in-laws purchased 55 acres of farmland, praying that it would one day become a generational homestead. Though they didn’t see it fulfilled in their lifetimes, their vision lived on through their son, Stan, his wife Cheryl, and their four sons, who would eventually bring this dream to reality.

After caring for both sets of parents until their passing, Cheryl and her family began building their farmhouse in 2016, despite facing the emotional challenges of losing all four parents within months of each other. Amid grief and Cheryl’s health struggles, God provided peace, giving them "beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, and the garment of praise instead of a spirit of heaviness" (Isaiah 61:3a). Throughout this process, God taught them valuable lessons about simplicity, comfort, and finding His presence in the ordinary moments of life. Cheryl envisioned the farmhouse as a place of warmth, security, and consistency, inspired by her cherished memories of childhood visits to her grandparents' homes.

One of the most significant moments for Cheryl was discovering old church doors in a shed on the property. These doors became a symbol for everyone who crossed their threshold, representing God’s power to redeem, restore, and repurpose even the most worn-out things. Just as Cheryl and her husband built their farmhouse using old materials, God takes us—broken and discarded—and transforms us into vessels of His glory, ready to make a difference in the world.

Cheryl shares how God continued to teach her lessons at every turn. As they built a spacious pantry, she was reminded of God's endless provision. Unlike her pantry, which constantly needs replenishing, God's storehouse is always full, providing all we need.

Cheryl encourages us to slow down, spend time with Jesus, and seek Him in His Word daily—not only for our benefit but so that His love can overflow to others. Today, "The Farm," as they affectionately call it, is a place of refreshment for family, retreats, meetings, and ministries, and it has become a revolving door of warm hospitality.

Inspired by Habakkuk 2:2, Cheryl and her family wrote down their vision, hoping that future generations would live lives of faith and continue as a family that loves God. They are now witnessing their prayer come to life.

 

About the Guest (Bio):

Before transitioning to writing full-time, Cheryl Schuermann dedicated her professional career to literacy education as a classroom teacher, consultant, and curriculum trainer across the United States. She is the author of five traditionally published books, including her debut devotional, Farmhouse Devotions: God’s Glory in the Ordinary (Bold Vision Books, May 2024), which was recently named the AWSA 2024 Golden Scroll Devotional Book of the Year.

Cheryl is actively involved as a president of Word Weavers International and is a member of the Advanced Writers and Speakers Association (AWSA) and Christian Authors Network/CIPA. In addition to writing, she facilitates a caregiver support group in her community and, for the past 25 years, has mentored and taught parents at her local church.

Cheryl finds joy in spending time with her family, which includes her four sons, four daughters-in-love, and thirteen grandchildren. They are her inspiration and the source of many of her stories. The Farm is her favorite place to write, be with family, and host ministry groups.

 

Book Spotlight:

Farmhouse Devotions: God’s Glory in the Ordinary invites readers to embark on a journey that reveals God's truth and wisdom in everyday experiences. From picture rails and antique church doors to prairie flowers and sticktights, this sixty-day devotional blends sound biblical truth with the timeless charm of farmhouse living. The book includes original artwork and family-friendly recipes, making it a delight for readers seeking both spiritual nourishment and a taste of simpler times.

Cheryl Schuermann invites everyone who finds refreshment in shady porches, simpler moments, and comforting truths to join her on this journey. With each devotion, readers are encouraged to grab a cup of coffee, get comfortable, and meditate on God’s Word. Farmhouse Devotions is a warm invitation to experience God’s glory in the ordinary and discover how He meets us in the most unexpected places. Welcome to The Farm!

 

Connect with Cheryl:

• Facebook Personal: Cheryl W. Schuermann
• Facebook Author Page: Cheryl Schuermann Author
• Website: https://cherylschuermann.com/