Long-distance relationships can be both exciting and challenging. When you add your shared Christian faith into the mix, there’s an incredible opportunity to grow closer to God and each other. But let’s be honest: navigating the ups and downs of a long-distance relationship can feel overwhelming at times. Thankfully, Scripture provides us with wisdom, and tools like modern technology make staying connected easier than ever. Here are 20 practical and biblical pieces of advice to help you thrive in a long-distance relationship.

1. Keep Christ at the Center The foundation of any successful Christian relationship is Jesus. Prioritize prayer, Scripture, and seeking God’s will together. Regularly pray for each other and ask God to guide your relationship.

2. Communicate Consistently Clear and frequent communication is essential. Set aside regular times to talk or video call. Be honest about your feelings and share your joys, struggles, and spiritual insights with one another.

3. Use Technology Wisely We live in a time where technology is a gift. Apps like SALT not only help Christians connect but can also be a tool to strengthen your bond. Use video calls, voice notes, or shared prayer apps to stay emotionally close.

4. Establish Boundaries Discuss and agree on boundaries early in your relationship to protect your hearts and honor God. This includes emotional, spiritual, and physical boundaries when you’re able to meet in person.

5. Plan Visits When Possible While distance can make the heart grow fonder, face-to-face time is vital. Plan visits ahead and make those moments special by being fully present and intentional with your time.

6. Share Your Faith Journey Talk about your spiritual growth, the Scriptures that are speaking to you, and your relationship with God. Consider doing a Bible study or devotional together to stay spiritually connected.

7. Be Patient with the Process Long-distance relationships require patience. Trust God’s timing and purpose for your relationship, even when it feels difficult.

8. Discuss Your Future Be intentional about discussing your long-term goals and vision for the relationship. Are you moving toward marriage? If so, how will you handle relocation, careers, and merging your lives?

9. Stay Active in Your Local Church Don’t let your relationship pull you away from your local church. Being part of a Christian community will provide spiritual encouragement and accountability.

10. Manage Expectations Talk openly about your expectations for communication, visits, and the future. Unspoken expectations can lead to unnecessary frustration.

11. Learn Each Other’s Love Languages Understanding how your partner feels loved can make all the difference. Whether it’s words of affirmation, quality time, or acts of service, find creative ways to show love from a distance.

12. Keep a Journal Consider keeping a shared journal where you write letters to each other, document prayers, or reflect on your relationship. It’s a meaningful way to stay connected and track your journey together.

13. Celebrate Milestones Acknowledge and celebrate anniversaries, birthdays, and other special dates. Even small gestures can make your partner feel valued and appreciated.

14. Be Honest About Challenges It’s okay to admit when the distance feels hard. Be honest with your partner about your struggles and lean on God for strength.

15. Avoid Comparisons Every relationship is unique, and comparing yours to others can lead to dissatisfaction. Trust that God is writing your story in His perfect way.

16. Keep Temptation in Check Distance can make it easier to fall into temptation, whether that’s emotional dependence on someone else or struggling with purity. Stay accountable to trusted Christian mentors or friends.

17. Pray Together Regularly Prayer is one of the most intimate ways to connect with your partner and God. Set a regular time to pray together, whether over the phone or video call.

18. Trust God with the Unknowns Uncertainty is part of every relationship, but long-distance can magnify it. Trust that God is in control and has a plan for both of your lives.

19. Be Intentional About Growth A long-distance relationship can be an opportunity for personal and spiritual growth. Use this time to work on becoming the best version of yourself.

20. Look to Christ’s Example of Love Christ’s love for us is sacrificial, patient, and enduring. Let His example guide how you love and support each other, even when it’s hard.

Long-distance relationships aren’t easy, but they can be incredibly rewarding when built on faith and commitment. With Christ at the center, consistent communication, and tools like SALT to help connect, you can navigate the distance and grow closer to each other and God. Remember, God delights in healthy relationships, and He is with you every step of the way.