Long distance relationship advice: Staying together despite the distance

In your journey as a Christian couple, you have likely discovered that love knows no bounds, and neither does faith. 

But when life leads you down separate paths, the challenge of maintaining a long distance relationship can test the very core of your connection. 

However, in this article, we will explore practical advice to help you and your partner stay strong in your commitment to one another, even when miles apart.

Long distance relationship struggles

Facing different struggles, you and your partner in a long distance relationship encounter challenges that have the potential to fracture your connection. These obstacles can place immense pressure on your commitment to one another.

Here are some of them.

Communication

In the realm of long distance relationships, one of the most prevalent and perplexing struggles is communication. The advances in technology have made it easier than ever to stay connected. But maintaining effective communication can be a constant battle. 

The physical separation often makes it challenging to find the right time and means to talk openly. The same applies when sharing your feelings, and keeping the emotional connection alive. 

The inability to read each other's facial expressions and body language also adds an extra layer of complexity. It can sometimes lead to misunderstandings and misinterpretations.

Insecurity

The absence of your partner's physical presence can sometimes give rise to feelings of insecurity. You might find yourself questioning your worth within the relationship. 

It is natural to have moments of self-doubts. You may wonder if you are truly cherished and if your partner's affections remain as steadfast as they were before the distance came between you. This insecurity can stem from the fear of being replaced or not being as central to your partner's life as you once were. In turn, this leads to emotional turbulence.

Mistrust

Trust is the bedrock of any successful relationship. But maintaining it in a long-distance setting can be an uphill battle. 

Physical separation can sometimes breed mistrust. This is as doubts about your partner's actions or intentions may creep in. 

Without the ability to witness each other's daily lives firsthand, it is easier for unfounded suspicions to take root. Building and maintaining trust becomes more challenging when you are not sharing the same physical space, and this can strain the relationship.

Confusion

The geographical divide in a long distance relationship can lead to emotional confusion. The absence of your partner's physical presence may create moments of uncertainty about where you both stand. 

You might question the depth of your feelings and the future of your relationship. 

The inability to engage in normal day-to-day activities together can also make you wonder if your connection is as strong as it once was. These moments of confusion can be emotionally draining and require open and honest communication to resolve.

Different expectations

Another common hurdle in long distance relationships is differing expectations about the future of the relationship. When you and your partner have separate visions for what lies ahead, conflicts can arise. These differing expectations can manifest in various aspects of the relationship, such as when and how often you'll visit each other, the ultimate goals of the relationship, and even timelines for when you might close the physical gap. 

Navigating these differences in expectations can be challenging and may require careful negotiation and compromise to find common ground and maintain a healthy, thriving relationship.

Long distance Christian couples

In your journey as a Christian couple in a long distance relationship, you encounter a unique struggle that adds a profound layer of complexity to your union. 

Beyond the challenges of physical separation, you face the daunting task of maintaining your faith and growing spiritually together. This struggle stems from the reality that, in long-distance dating, you would not have the regular, everyday time together that same-city relationships enjoy. 

There are fewer nights out, fewer errand trips, and less time shared with mutual friends. You have fewer opportunities for those shared experiences that feel like normal life and can foster spiritual growth together. 

Furthermore, it is undeniably difficult because you deeply desire to be with this person who shares your faith. But the physical separation makes discernment, prayer, and spiritual growth especially challenging.

Long distance relationship advice for Christian couples

While the road may be challenging, the shared values and beliefs that brought you together in the first place can serve as a source of strength and resilience. Moreover, if you are looking for practical advice, you can turn to the following:

Take time to seek God together

Amid the challenges of a long distance relationship, you may find it difficult to maintain a strong spiritual connection. The physical distance can lead to feelings of spiritual isolation and hinder the growth of your faith together.

To address this problem, it is crucial to prioritize taking time to seek God together. This means setting aside moments for prayer, Bible study, and spiritual reflection as a couple, even if you are physically apart. By doing so, you can nurture your shared spiritual journey, strengthen your faith, and keep God at the center of your relationship.

Set expectations for communication

Long distance relationships often suffer from miscommunication or unrealistic expectations about how often and in what manner you should communicate. This can lead to frustration and feelings of neglect.

To tackle this issue, it is essential to set clear and realistic expectations for communication. 

Establish a communication schedule that works for both of you, taking into account time zone differences and other commitments. Open and honest discussions about your communication needs and boundaries can prevent misunderstandings and help you feel more connected despite the physical distance.

Use technology to grow in your faith and relationship

The physical separation in a long distance relationship can make it challenging to engage in shared activities and spiritual growth. Traditional methods of connecting may not be feasible.

Embrace technology as a solution. Use video calls, messaging apps, and other digital tools to bridge the gap. 

You can attend virtual church services together, participate in online Bible studies, or even read devotionals as a couple. Technology can be a powerful means to continue growing in your faith and deepening your relationship, despite the miles between you.

Make regular visits

Physical distance can lead to a sense of longing and a lack of intimacy in your relationship. Without regular face-to-face interaction, the emotional connection can weaken.

To address this issue, plan and make regular visits to see each other in person. These visits can provide much-needed quality time together, nurturing your emotional bond and reminding you both of the love you share. While visits may not be frequent, they are essential for maintaining the closeness of your relationship.

Avoid behaviors like assuming and excessive jealousy

Insecurities and doubts can creep into a long distance relationship, leading to behaviors like assuming the worst or excessive jealousy. These behaviors can erode trust and cause unnecessary conflicts.

The solution lies in open communication and trust-building. 

Avoid making assumptions by talking openly about your feelings, concerns, and expectations. Trust each other and give the benefit of the doubt when misunderstandings arise. Address jealousy through understanding and reassurance, focusing on building a foundation of trust in your relationship.

Connect and seek support and accountability with a faith community

Feeling isolated from your faith community due to distance can impact your spiritual growth and support network.

To combat this issue, actively seek connection with a faith community, even if it is not in your immediate physical vicinity. 

Attend virtual church services, join online Christian groups, or participate in faith-based events remotely. Building these connections can provide you with spiritual support, accountability, and a sense of belonging, even from afar.

Staying connected through faith

The physical miles may separate you. But as a Christian couple, you have the power to maintain a deep and meaningful connection through the unwavering strength of your faith. 

Your shared belief in God can serve as a unifying force that transcends distance and sustains your love. 

Moreover, through prayer, spiritual growth, and a commitment to nurturing your faith together, you can fortify the bonds of your relationship. In turn, allowing your love to flourish despite the challenges of separation. 

Trust in the belief that God is with you both, guiding your path and strengthening your connection, even when you are apart.

More from Crossmap:

Torn in between: How to achieve work life balance