“Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” — Ecclesiastes 4:12 (NIV)

Faith is a guiding force for many Black couples, helping them build long-lasting, sustainable Black marriages rooted in love, trust, and spiritual connection. The belief that God is the foundation of a strong marriage is a truth that resonates deeply within Black families.

For Dr. Jamian Lovett and First Lady Shakia Lovett, faith is at the heart of their 20+ years of marriage. As partners in life and ministry, they have built their relationship and family on Christian principles, inspiring countless couples along the way.

Marriage as a Ministry: Prioritizing Faith in Relationships

“He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the Lord.” — Proverbs 18:22 (NIV)

Pastor Lovett emphasizes that faith and tradition are crucial in overcoming challenges in Black marriages. He has witnessed the resilience of couples who ground their relationships in spiritual principles, allowing them to navigate difficulties with understanding, forgiveness, and unity.

However, he admits that early in his ministry, he unintentionally prioritized work over his marriage. God later revealed to him that his first ministry is his family. Now, he and Lady Lovett follow the mantra: “God, Family, and the Work of the Church.”

This shift has led them to prioritize their marriage through:

• Regular date nights
• Family vacations
• Sunday dinners

These intentional acts strengthen their bond, creating a balance between faith, family, and purpose.

Overcoming Life’s Challenges Through Faith and Love

“Love is patient, love is kind… It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.” — 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 (NIV)

In 2021, Pastor Lovett was diagnosed with bacterial meningitis, a life-threatening illness. His doctors told him that had he arrived at the hospital two days later, he might not have survived.

During this difficult time, Lady Lovett’s unwavering faith and love sustained their family. While caring for their three children and maintaining her commitments, she became his source of strength.

Through this experience, Pastor Lovett realized:

• His wife is his first ministry before work
• Marriage thrives on mutual support, faith, and devotion
• God’s divine plan for their union was reaffirmed

Their testimony serves as a powerful reminder that faith and love can withstand life’s greatest trials.

Spiritual Principles for Black Couples Seeking Stronger Marriages

“Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ… Husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself.” — Ephesians 5:21-22, 28-29 (NIV)

Dr. Lovett shares key principles for couples seeking a faith-filled, thriving relationship:

• Prioritize Intentionality: Make time for each other
• Develop Healthy Communication: Be open and honest
• Embrace Each Other’s Imperfections: Show compassion
• Engage in Spiritual Practices Together: Pray, study scripture, and worship as a couple

Lady Lovett adds:
“Create a safe space for one another. Life’s trials are inevitable, but when you support each other, trust deepens, and love grows strong.”

Raising Children with Faith and Discipline

“Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right… Fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath; instead, bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.” — Ephesians 6:1, 4 (NIV)

Faith is not only the foundation of marriage but also a guiding light in Black parenting. The Lovetts emphasize the importance of instilling spiritual values in their children.

At home, they practice:

• Teaching Biblical principles in daily life
• Encouraging respect, honor, and obedience
• Balancing discipline with love and guidance

Their children once playfully quoted Ephesians 6:1, reminding their parents of their biblical responsibilities too. This mutual faith-based approach has created a nurturing and spiritually enriching home.

About Dr. Jamian Lovett & Lady Shakia Lovett

Dr. Jamian Lovett, Ph.D., is a Kingdom Ambassador and passionate preacher known for teaching Kingdom principles and end-times Gospel. He holds three theological degrees from The Evangelical Bible College and Seminary, including a Doctorate in Theology with a focus on Jewish culture. His leadership has supported various ministry and community efforts, including mentorship programs for underserved youth and partnerships addressing health disparities.

Lady Shakia Lovett is a devoted wife, mother, and mentor who embodies the principles of a Proverbs 31 woman. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Purdue University Global and is dedicated to faith, family, and service. Together, the Lovetts share a mission to strengthen families through faith and have three children: Jamian Jr., Jaelyn, and Jazlyn.

About Friendship Missionary Baptist Church

Friendship Missionary Baptist Church in West Palm Beach, Florida, is a historical Black church committed to worship, community service, and spreading the Gospel. The church hosts weekly worship services, Bible studies, and outreach programs to support local families.

For more information, visit Friendship Missionary Baptist Church.