Jealousy is one of those emotions that can sneak into a relationship when we least expect it. Even the most grounded, God-centered couples can find themselves battling feelings of insecurity or comparison. While jealousy is a natural human emotion, it has the potential to cause harm if left unchecked. Thankfully, as followers of Christ, we have the tools to address and overcome jealousy with love, grace, and faith.

If you’re in a committed Christian relationship and you’ve been struggling with jealousy, know that you’re not alone—and you don’t have to stay stuck. Here are 20 biblical, practical, and relationship-strengthening steps to overcome jealousy and build a healthier, God-glorifying relationship with your partner.

1. Acknowledge the Feeling

The first step is being honest with yourself. If jealousy is creeping in, recognize it without shame. Emotions are not inherently sinful—it’s what we do with them that matters. Take a moment to ask, “Why am I feeling this way?”

2. Take It to God in Prayer

Bring your feelings before God. Philippians 4:6 reminds us to present all our requests to Him. Ask Him for wisdom and peace to overcome jealousy. Prayer helps us realign our hearts with God’s truth and reminds us of His perfect plan for our relationships.

3. Meditate on Scripture

Fill your heart and mind with God’s Word. Verses like 1 Corinthians 13:4—“Love does not envy”—can serve as reminders of the kind of love God calls us to cultivate. Meditating on Scripture helps us combat jealousy with truth.

4. Identify Triggers

What’s causing the jealousy? Is it your partner’s past relationships, their social media use, or insecurities within yourself? Understanding the root of the issue will help you address it constructively.

5. Foster Open Communication

Talk to your partner about what you’re feeling. Approach the conversation with humility, focusing on how the two of you can work together. Avoid accusations or blame; instead, frame it as a team effort to strengthen your bond.

6. Cultivate Trust

Trust is the foundation of a healthy relationship. Be intentional about building trust through transparency, reliability, and consistent love. If past betrayals are fueling your jealousy, seek healing through forgiveness and prayer.

7. Avoid Comparison

Comparison is a thief of joy. It’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing your relationship to others, but God’s plan for your relationship is unique. Celebrate the blessings and strengths within your own relationship instead.

8. Check Your Social Media Habits

Social media can amplify jealousy by exposing us to highlight reels of other people’s lives. If you notice social media fueling insecurity or envy, consider setting boundaries or taking a break.

9. Set Healthy Boundaries

Boundaries can protect your relationship and reduce jealousy. For example, discuss boundaries for interactions with exes or how you use social media as a couple. Boundaries aren’t about control—they’re about mutual respect.

10. Practice Gratitude

Jealousy thrives in a heart that forgets gratitude. Take time to thank God for your partner and the blessings in your relationship. Gratitude shifts your focus from what’s lacking to what’s abundant.

11. Prioritize Quality Time

Spending intentional time together can strengthen your connection and reduce feelings of insecurity. Whether it’s a weekly date night or a simple walk, make time to invest in your relationship.

12. Remember Your Identity in Christ

Our worth comes from who we are in Christ, not from our relationships. When we root our identity in God, we are less likely to seek validation from our partner or feel threatened by others.

13. Address Insecurities

Jealousy often stems from personal insecurities. Take steps to address these areas with God’s help, whether through prayer, counseling, or personal growth. Remember, you are fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14).

14. Encourage One Another

A great way to combat jealousy is by building each other up. Be your partner’s biggest encourager and cheerleader. Celebrate their victories and support their growth.

15. Surround Yourself with Wise Counsel

Seek guidance from Christian mentors, a small group, or even counseling if needed. A trusted outside perspective can help you see your situation more clearly and offer godly wisdom.

16. Remember God’s Design for Relationships

God designed relationships to reflect His love and grace. When jealousy arises, remind yourself of the bigger picture: your relationship is a partnership meant to glorify Him.

17. Forgive Quickly

If your partner unintentionally triggers jealousy, be quick to forgive. Holding onto resentment will only deepen the divide. Colossians 3:13 encourages us to forgive as the Lord has forgiven us.

18. Pray Together

There’s something powerful about praying with your partner. Inviting God into your relationship strengthens your bond and helps you approach challenges—like jealousy—from a place of unity.

19. Use Resources to Strengthen Your Relationship

Consider using tools and resources to grow together as a couple. For example, apps like SALT not only help single Christians meet but also provide inspiration and community for building Christ-centered relationships.

20. Keep Christ at the Center

Ultimately, the best way to overcome jealousy is by keeping Christ at the center of your relationship. When your focus is on glorifying Him, everything else—including jealousy—fades into perspective.

Jealousy doesn’t have to define your relationship. By addressing it with prayer, communication, and intentional steps, you can strengthen your bond and honor God through your love for one another. Remember, no couple is perfect, but with God’s guidance, you can overcome challenges and grow closer together.