His Eye Is on the Sparrow

The Story Behind the Hymn

This hymn was written in 1905 by lyricist Civilla D. Martin, with music by Charles H. Gabriel, a prolific composer of gospel songs. The inspiration came when Civilla visited a bedridden Christian woman who had been physically disabled for nearly 20 years. Despite her situation, the woman’s faith was unwavering. When asked about the source of her joy, she simply said, “His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me.”

Those words stayed with Civilla, and she soon penned the lyrics to the hymn. Gabriel set it to music, and the hymn quickly spread across churches in America. It later gained worldwide recognition after being sung by artists like Mahalia Jackson and Ethel Waters, who deeply identified with its message.

What Makes It Powerful

The beauty of this hymn is in its reassurance. It reminds us that even when we feel unseen or small, God is always near. His love isn’t distant — it’s involved in the details of our lives. This song turns that truth into a melody of quiet strength.

A perfect verse to match the hymn is Matthew 10:29–31 (NIV):

Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care… So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.

This hymn sings that truth back to the heart: If He watches over the sparrow, He watches over me.

My Violin Cover

When I arranged “His Eye Is on the Sparrow” for violin, I kept the melody soft and reflective, giving space for each phrase to feel tender and intimate. It’s not a loud or triumphant hymn — it’s gentle and steady, like God’s daily care.

With Violin Hymns, I try to reflect the message behind the music. This one is all about rest — resting in God’s constant love.

Listen and Reflect

The video is below. As you listen, let the peace of this hymn wash over you. Whatever you're facing today, you are not alone. Why should I feel discouraged? Why should the shadows come? His eye is on the sparrow — and I know He watches me.

Lyrics

Why should I feel discouraged?

Why should the shadows come?

Why should my heart be lonely

And long for heav’n and home,

When Jesus is my portion?

My constant Friend is He:

His eye is on the sparrow,

And I know He watches me;

His eye is on the sparrow,

And I know He watches me.

I sing because I’m happy—

I sing because I’m free—

For His eye is on the sparrow,

And I know He watches me.

“Let not your heart be troubled.”

His tender word I hear,

And resting on His goodness,

I lose my doubt and fear.

Though by the path He leadeth,

But one step I may see:

His eye is on the sparrow,

And I know He watches me;

His eye is on the sparrow,

And I know He watches me.

I sing because I’m happy—

I sing because I’m free—

For His eye is on the sparrow,

And I know He watches me.

Whenever I am tempted,

Whenever clouds arise,

When songs give place to sighing,

When hope within me dies,

I draw the closer to Him;

From care He sets me free:

His eye is on the sparrow,

And I know He watches me;

His eye is on the sparrow,

And I know He watches me.

I sing because I’m happy—

I sing because I’m free—

For His eye is on the sparrow,

And I know He watches me.

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