New Testament
Luke 21:19
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Through your patience, maintain possession of your souls.
Compare translations
In your patience possess ye your souls.
What Luke 21:19 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus emphasizes the importance of patience during difficult times. He encourages His followers to remain steadfast and composed, suggesting that their ability to endure hardships will help them maintain control over their lives and souls. The term 'possess your souls' implies that through patience, one can safeguard their inner peace and spiritual well-being. This teaching is particularly relevant in the context of trials and tribulations, where anxiety and fear can easily take over. By cultivating patience, believers can navigate challenges without losing their sense of self or faith. This verse serves as a reminder that enduring trials with a calm spirit is essential for spiritual growth and resilience. It reassures followers that their perseverance will ultimately lead to a deeper connection with God and a stronger sense of identity in Christ.
How to apply Luke 21:19 to your life
In your daily life, practice patience when faced with challenges. Instead of reacting impulsively, take a moment to breathe and reflect. This approach will help you maintain your composure and make better decisions, ultimately leading to a more peaceful and fulfilling life.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Teaching on the Mount of Olives (Luke 21:5–36)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Jesus

Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Luke 21:19
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Luke 21:19
Related Bible verses
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Luke
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 21:19 mean?
Luke 21:19 emphasizes the importance of patience during difficult times. Jesus encourages His followers to remain steadfast, suggesting that enduring hardships helps them maintain control over their lives and souls.
What is the meaning of 'possess your souls' in Luke 21:19?
The phrase 'possess your souls' means to safeguard your inner peace and spiritual well-being. It implies that through patience, individuals can maintain their sense of self and faith amidst challenges.
How can I apply Luke 21:19 in my life?
You can apply Luke 21:19 by practicing patience when faced with challenges. Take a moment to breathe and reflect instead of reacting impulsively, which will help you make better decisions and maintain peace.
What themes are present in Luke 21:19?
Key themes in Luke 21:19 include patience, endurance, spiritual control, faith, resilience, and inner peace. These themes highlight the importance of maintaining composure during difficult times.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.