Joyce Meyer, the internationally renowned Christian speaker and author, has built a global ministry on principles of faith and practical living. While her public life is often centered on her spiritual teachings, her personal journey, particularly her enduring marriage to Dave Meyer, forms a foundational pillar of her story, demonstrating resilience and commitment through various life stages.
Before finding her lifelong partner, Joyce Meyer experienced a challenging early life, including a brief and difficult first marriage. This initial union, which occurred when she was just 18 years old, was reportedly short-lived and marked by significant personal struggles. According to her own accounts, this first marriage lasted only five years and was characterized by her husband's deceit and a period of financial hardship and emotional distress. This early experience, though painful, ultimately shaped her understanding of relationships and her reliance on faith.
Her path to a lasting partnership began when she met Dave Meyer, a former engineering draftsman. Their meeting marked a turning point in her life, offering stability and genuine connection after her previous difficult experience. They reportedly met in 1966. Dave Meyer, known for his supportive and steady presence, quickly became a significant figure in her life, providing the loving foundation she had sought.
Joyce and Dave Meyer exchanged vows and were married on January 7, 1967. Their marriage has been a cornerstone of her personal life and public ministry for over five decades. Dave has consistently served as her steadfast partner, often working behind the scenes to support her burgeoning ministry. He has been described as her rock, providing emotional support and practical assistance as her career grew from local Bible studies to international crusades and media appearances.
Together, Joyce and Dave Meyer built not only a family but also a global ministry. They have four children: Dan Meyer, Brad Meyer, Sandra McCollom, and Laura Holtzmann. Their children have also been involved in various capacities within Joyce Meyer Ministries, continuing the family's dedication to their mission. The couple's commitment to each other has often been highlighted in Joyce's teachings as an example of a successful, faith-based marriage, weathering the pressures of public life and personal challenges.
Dave Meyer's role has been instrumental in the growth of Joyce Meyer Ministries, serving as Vice President and providing essential administrative and spiritual leadership. He often travels with Joyce, participating in events and offering his quiet support. Their relationship is frequently portrayed as a partnership built on mutual respect, shared faith, and unwavering dedication, even amidst the demands of a high-profile ministry.
Over the years, the couple has openly discussed the challenges and triumphs of their long marriage, emphasizing communication, forgiveness, and a shared spiritual foundation as keys to their longevity. Joyce often shares anecdotes about their relationship in her sermons, offering practical advice on marital harmony and commitment. Their enduring partnership, spanning over 57 years as of 2024, stands as a testament to their personal vows and shared life's work. They continue to be seen together, both in public and through their ministry's media, presenting a united front in their shared mission.
Joyce and Dave Meyer's romantic journey, from early hardships to a lasting, supportive marriage, reflects a deep commitment that has not only sustained them personally but also served as an example to millions who follow her teachings. Their relationship remains a central, stable element in the dynamic and far-reaching work of Joyce Meyer Ministries.