What does the Bible say about long distance relationships?

Bible Topic · WEB

The Bible teaches that separation does not prevent Christians from loving faithfully, praying earnestly, and trusting God to sustain relationships according to his wise will. First Corinthians 13:4-7 calls love patient, kind, enduring, and hopeful, qualities especially needed when people are apart. Colossians 2:5 and Philippians 1:3 show that believers can remain united in spirit and affection despite distance. Genesis 31:49 reminds us that the Lord watches over those separated from one another, while Joshua 1:9 and Proverbs 3:5-8 direct anxious hearts to God’s presence and guidance. Couples should pray together, communicate truthfully, seek support from the church, and entrust their future to Christ.

Top passages, ranked by readers

Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible

  • 1 Corinthians 13:7

    bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.

  • Colossians 2:5

    For though I am absent in the flesh, yet am I with you in the spirit, rejoicing and seeing your order, and the steadfastness of your faith in Christ.

  • 1 Corinthians 13:4-7

    [4] Love is patient and is kind; love doesn't envy. Love doesn't brag, is not proud, [5] doesn't behave itself inappropriately, doesn't seek its own way, is not provoked, takes no account of evil; [6] doesn't rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth; [7] bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.

  • Genesis 31:49

    and Mizpah, for he said, "Yahweh watch between me and you, when we are absent one from another.

  • Joshua 1:9

    Haven't I commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; don't be afraid, neither be dismayed: for Yahweh your God is with you wherever you go.

  • Ecclesiastes 4:9-12

    [9] Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor. [10] For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow; but woe to him who is alone when he falls, and doesn't have another to lift him up. [11] Again, if two lie together, then they have warmth; but how can one keep warm alone? [12] If a man prevails against one who is alone, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken.

  • Matthew 18:19

    Again, assuredly I tell you, that if two of you will agree on earth concerning anything that they will ask, it will be done for them by my Father who is in heaven.

  • Proverbs 3:5-8

    [5] Trust in Yahweh with all your heart, And don't lean on your own understanding. [6] In all your ways acknowledge him, And he will direct your paths. [7] Don't be wise in your own eyes. Fear Yahweh, and depart from evil. [8] It will be health to your body, And nourishment to your bones.

  • Philippians 1:3

    I thank my God whenever I remember you,

  • Luke 18:1

    He also spoke a parable to them that they must always pray, and not give up,

Related topics

Go deeper

Ask Explain Bible AI about long distance relationships and get a fuller answer from a Reformed theological perspective.

Ask what the Bible says about long distance relationships