«Teach Me to Know Your Ways» is a hymn written by the Norwegian poet Jakob Paulli (1844–1915). He was a Danish priest. The hymn is popular in Norway and is often used in church settings.
I myself grew up with it and use the hymn as a prayer for guidance—but perhaps even more as an expression of trust in God when life is difficult and uncertain. That’s when I pray with the words in the second verse:
“And when in fear my heart is pounding, then summon forth my courage, Lord.”
Courage is a remarkable skill we humans are capable of displaying. It transcends time, titles, different cultures, colossal forces, and frightening circumstances.
It is the skill that enables ordinary people to confront fear, adversity, and uncertainty with confidence and determination. Whether it’s facing personal challenges, living through illness, standing firm in one’s faith, or pursuing milestones and finish lines despite obstacles. Truly, courage is a fundamental element in the journey of life from cradle to grave.
Courage is often understood as the absence of fear. But I think that’s a misunderstanding. It’s probably more accurate to say that courage is the ability to act in the presence of fear.
With courage, we are not blind to risk or uncertainty. On the contrary—we acknowledge them and are very aware of them. Down to the smallest detail in the fear-picture we are facing. But with courage, we choose to keep going—regardless.
It’s a kind of bravery.
And it’s not limited to grand, heroic deeds but is also evident in everyday decisions and actions. Courage can be quiet and unpretentious. For instance, when we speak the truth, admit our mistakes, or step out of our comfort zone, past the fear zone and into the zone of growth and learning—and choose to stay there, even when everything feels unfamiliar.
Courage plays a crucial role in many dimensions of life.
Courage, for example, can help someone confront their fear—whether it’s the fear of failure, rejection, or the unknown. By facing this fear, one can expand their comfort zone and unlock new possibilities for personal growth.
Life is a highly unpredictable thing. It’s constantly changing. Yes—it often seems like a series of moments; blink, blink, and everything has changed… Well then, we must summon our courage! Because courage enables people to adapt to new circumstances, embrace change, and thrive in new environments.
In the professional world, courage is essential for innovation, smart operations, and healthy progress. I myself work with social entrepreneurship. That’s a kind of enterprise that must relate to several “bottom lines” compared to other companies. Every day, we must take calculated risks with courage, propose new ideas, and challenge the status quo. If not, we may lose ground—and our jobs.
We are familiar with the “great” leaders who show courage by making tough decisions, standing by their convictions, and inspiring their teams—or entire nations—to reach shared goals despite obstacles.
It’s inspiring. Absolutely! But let’s not forget that courage thrives just as well among ordinary people… for ordinary hard days and everyday challenges. You can be that kind of courageous person—for someone else. And you can “borrow” courage from a friend when life pushes back.
And all of us, in great and small ways, can stand up for what is right: Courage is essential to promoting justice, equality, and decent behavior. It gives each and every one of us “ordinary folks” a chance to stand up against injustice, marginalization, and exclusion—in both small and large communities.
Courage is not an inborn trait. I see it more as a skill that we can develop and strengthen over time. Here are at least some strategies for “summoning courage” and putting it to use:
Identify your fear
Understanding what triggers fear is the first step in overcoming it. Reflect on past experiences and see if you can recognize patterns that cause anxiety or hesitation.
Set realistic goals
Break down large, intimidating tasks into smaller, manageable steps. Achieving them can build confidence and reduce fear. And remember to celebrate small victories in a big way! That can make fear shrink back.
Embrace failure – that too is a part of being courageous
See failures as learning opportunities rather than setbacks. After all, in the worst case, failures are just detours toward your goal… and of course, there is something new to see along the detours in our lives too. This shift in perspective can reduce fear of failure and encourage a proactive approach to challenges.
Practice self-compassion – Be your own best friend!
Be kind to yourself in difficult times. Acknowledge your efforts, and remember what I said: Celebrate small victories! Because that builds resilience within us.
Do something – Start small
Begin with small acts of courage, like speaking your mind in a meeting or trying something new or learning a new skill. Gradually increase the scale of these actions as your confidence grows: Yes, you can learn something new. Yes, you can turn something new into part of your lifestyle.
You don’t have to be brave alone – Seek support
Surround yourself with supporters—people who encourage and motivate you. Sharing your fears with others can give you strength. Sharing your goals can give you accountability.
Evaluate your experiences – But remember: small rearview mirror, big windshield
After taking brave steps, reflect on the results and what you’ve learned. Use these insights to improve future decisions and actions.
Courage is a transformative quality or power that enables us to navigate life’s complexities with resilience and resolve.
In a world—and daily life—full of uncertainty, courage is a steadfast companion that walks with us through challenges and helps us emerge stronger and wiser.
And the hymn? It goes like this:
Teach me to know Your ways, O Lord,
and follow them with courage true.
I know that what I here possess
is borrowed wealth, and all from You.
But if Your mighty hand will guide,
I shall not stray from what is right;
And for each hope that dies below,
I’ll gain a brighter, higher light.
Teach me to know Your thoughts, O Lord,
and train my heart to think them too.
And when in fear my heart is pounding,
then summon forth my courage, true.
When all my thoughts are worn and weary,
then speak what You have thought, O God,
and I shall see that dawn is breaking
behind the night of fear and doubt.
But most of all, Lord, teach me this—
Your boundless love that never ends.
The love that lights a thousand stars
when fortune’s sun no longer sends.
The love that dries the tears it started,
and heals the wounds it once allowed.
It walks through what in life was lost,
and gives us more than it withdrew.
DREIESKIVA|Roald Kvam 
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