His Eye Is on the Sparrow

The author of “His Eye Is on the Sparrow,” Civilla D. Martin, wrote many hymns and gospel songs. She recounted that in 1905, she and her husband became friends with the Doolittles, a couple who had both suffered from disabling health problems for many years. One day the Martins asked Mrs. Doolittle how she kept from becoming discouraged with all her difficulties. “How can I be discouraged,” she replied, “when my Father watches the sparrows, and I know He loves and cares for me?”

This faith-filled answer reflected Christ’s words in Matthew 10:29–31: “Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows.”

Shortly after hearing Mrs. Doolittle’s response, Martin wrote the text of “His Eye Is on the Sparrow.” She sent it to Charles H. Gabriel, author and composer of “I Stand All Amazed,” and he composed the music to accompany her text.

Find lyrics, sheet music, and recordings for His Eye Is on the Sparrow

Scriptures

Principles

The Lord Jesus Christ is aware of each of us individually.
We can rely on the Lord’s strength and comfort, especially in difficult times.
When we exercise faith in Jesus Christ, He can remove doubt in our hearts and calm our fears.

Questions to Ponder

When have you felt that Jesus Christ knew and valued you personally?
How can the message of this song help you when you question your worth?
How can knowing that God cares for each of His children guide your interactions with others?

Related Gospel Study Guides

From Topics and Questions, Gospel Library:

Activities for Families

Teach that Heavenly Father is watching over us. Explain to your children that a sparrow is a small bird. As you sing or listen to the chorus, have your children make a bird shape with their hands and let it “fly” with the music. Encourage them to move their birds high or low to match the music, to make their birds pause or slow down for long notes, and to have their birds land as if in a nest on the final word of the hymn. Sing or listen to the hymn again, and when it says, “He watches me,” pause and ask, “Who is watching over you?” Read Matthew 10:29–31, and talk about how Jesus Christ and Heavenly Father are always watching over us and that we can feel safe, happy, and free—just as the hymn says. Once the chorus is familiar, listen to the full hymn and sing along with the chorus. Each time your children hear “sparrow” in the lyrics, have them do the bird motions again. Throughout the week, whenever your family sees birds outside, remind your children that Heavenly Father is always watching over them.