Teach Me Thy Way, O Lord

By B. Mansell Ramsey

Lyrics

1. Teach me thy way, O Lord; teach me thy way!
Thy guiding grace afford; teach me thy way!
Help me to walk aright, more by faith, less by sight;
lead me with heav’nly light; teach me thy way!

2. When I am sad at heart, teach me thy way!
When earthly joys depart, teach me thy way!
In hours of loneliness, in times of dire distress,
in failure or success, teach me thy way!

3. When doubts and fears arise, teach me thy way!
When storms o'erspread the skies, teach me thy way!
Shine thro' the cloud and rain, thro' sorrow, toil, and pain;
make thou my pathway plain; teach me thy way!

4. Long as my life shall last, teach me thy way!
Where’er my lot be cast, teach me thy way!
Until the race is run, until the journey’s done,
until the crown is won, teach me thy way!

Bible Reference

Psalm 27:11

About This Hymn

Teach me Thy way, O Lord, teach me Thy way. These opening words set the tone for a hymn of humble petition that seeks divine guidance in every step of life. Written and composed in 1919 by B. Mansell Ramsey, both text and tune express a spirit of dependence on God. Each stanza reflects the believer’s deep desire to walk in the Lord’s path regardless of trials, uncertainties, or difficulties.

The hymn is built around the prayer that God would lead, strengthen, and sustain His child in all seasons. When doubts and fears arise, the singer asks for God’s clear direction. When sorrows or struggles press heavily, the prayer remains the same: teach me Thy way. The final verse lifts the gaze heavenward, reminding the believer that the way of God leads to the eternal crown.

With its meter of 6.4.6.4.6.6.6.4, the hymn flows in a steady and meditative rhythm that carries the theme of submission and trust. This structure allows the words to be easily sung by congregations, making it a lasting favorite in hymnals. The union of heartfelt words and gentle tune, known as Camacha, has helped the hymn remain a treasured prayer of guidance, assurance, and faith.