Long-Distance and Military Marriages: Staying Close When You're Apart
Deployments, travel jobs, work assignments, or seasons of living in different cities: some marriages spend a lot of time apart. Distance brings unique challenges, but with intention and faith, it can also deepen your bond.
The Mizpah blessing
Genesis 31:49: "The LORD watch between me and thee, when we are absent one from another."
Many military and long-distance couples treasure this verse. Even when you can't be together, God is present with both of you.
Joshua 1:9: "Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest."
Challenges of distance
- Loneliness and missed moments
- Miscommunication through texts and calls
- One spouse carrying the home alone
- Increased vulnerability to temptation
- Difficult reentry when you're back together
Staying connected apart
1. Pray at the same time. Even across time zones, agree on a daily moment to pray for each other.
2. Read the same Scripture. Follow a shared Bible reading plan and talk about it.
3. Schedule calls, and be flexible. Consistency helps, but grace matters when plans fall through.
4. Send real mail. Letters and care packages are treasured.
5. Be transparent. Share your days honestly and keep healthy boundaries with others.
6. Build support at home. The spouse at home needs church community and practical help.
Coming home
Reunions are joyful, but readjusting takes time. Routines changed. You both grew. Be patient, talk openly, and consider a pastor or counselor if reentry is hard.
For military families
Thank you for your sacrifice. Our "I Fear Him and My Wife" Navy veteran tee is a lighthearted favorite among military husbands.
A prayer for couples apart
Lord, watch between us while we are apart. Keep us faithful, protect us, and hold our hearts close. Bring us safely back together. Amen.
More in our Christian Marriage blog.
