In 2 Kings 8:1–6, we find a fascinating example of this dynamic. Gehazi, the servant of the prophet Elisha, was standing before the king, telling him all the great things Elisha had done. As part of his storytelling, Gehazi began sharing about the Shunammite woman whose son had been miraculously restored to life.

Now, it was a powerful story—a mother’s heartbreak turned into joy, a miracle only God could orchestrate. But then something unexpected happened.

While Gehazi was still recounting the story, the woman herself walked in, along with her son. Suddenly, the king was no longer just hearing a secondhand account. The very people from the story were standing right in front of him.

And when the woman told her own story, the king responded. He didn’t just listen politely; he acted. He ordered that her land be restored and that she receive all the income from it since the day she left.

Gehazi’s version of the story was good, but the Shunammite woman’s testimony carried the authority, the power, and the authenticity needed for restoration.

This moment reminds us that stories gain their fullest power when told by the people who lived them. Retellings can inspire, but firsthand voices transform.

Think about your own life:

• How many times have you shared someone else’s story because it moved you?
• And how many times has someone else shared your story, leaving you wishing you had been the one to tell it?

Sometimes, we are Gehazi—sharing stories we’ve witnessed or heard because we want others to see God’s hand at work. But other times, we are the Shunammite woman—standing quietly in the background of our own story, waiting for the moment to step forward and say, “Yes, that’s me. Here’s what really happened.”

And when we do, the world doesn’t just listen—they respond.

Here’s the good news: you don’t need to be famous, polished, or perfect to tell your story. You just need to be willing.

Every time you write a blog, record a video, or publish a book, you’re creating space for your voice to be heard. You’re moving from being a character in someone else’s story to being the author of your own.

That’s why I’m so passionate about what I do. I don’t just want to tell stories—I want to equip others to tell theirs. Because I believe someone is waiting for your words, your testimony, your truth.

If firsthand stories are so powerful, why do so many of us stay quiet? For some, it’s fear. Fear of what people will think. Fear that our story isn’t “big enough” or “important enough.” Fear that we’ll be judged, misunderstood, or dismissed. For others, it’s doubt. Doubt in our ability to write or speak clearly. Doubt that our experience could possibly help someone else.

And sometimes, it’s simply habit. We’ve gotten used to letting others tell our story for us—pastors, teachers, friends, even family. Their versions may be accurate, but they aren’t complete. Only you can bring the fullness of your journey to light.

I’ve seen it happen again and again. A woman shares her journey through grief, and suddenly, another woman who thought she was all alone realizes she’s not. A man opens up about failure and redemption, and someone else finds the courage to get back up. When we tell our stories, we give others permission to tell theirs.

And here’s the beauty: just like the Shunammite woman, your story could be the key that unlocks restoration—not just for you, but for those who hear it.

So, let me ask you: whose story are you telling? And when will you tell your own?

Maybe you’ve been hesitant. Maybe you’ve thought your story wasn’t important enough. But I want to remind you—someone is waiting on your words.

This is why I created the QuickStart Ebook Creation Course. It’s not just about writing a book. It’s about giving you the tools and confidence to put your story into the world where it can do what only your story can do—change lives.

Your story matters. It’s time to step forward. Don’t let someone else’s version be the only one that’s heard.

✨ This week’s reflection: Are you Gehazi, retelling someone else’s story? Or are you the Shunammite woman, ready to stand before the king and speak your truth?

It’s your time. Your voice. Your story.

Blessings,

Dr. Janice R. Love

Founder Pearls Perfected Institute