5 Best Renditions of His Eye is On The Sparrow

It’s hard to imagine a Christian hymn that has been more beloved and more enduring than “His Eye is on the Sparrow.”

Written by lyricist Civilla Martin and composer Charles Gabriel in 1905, this gospel song has provided encouragement and comfort to countless Christians over the last century.

But what is the story behind this classic song? Let’s take a closer look.

His Eye is On The Sparrow Lyrics

Why should I feel discouraged, why should the shadows come,
Why should my heart be lonely, and long for heaven 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 doubts and fears;
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.

Rendition #1: Mahalia Jackson – His Eye Is On The Sparrow

The Inspiration for Martin’s Lyrics

Civilla Martin was inspired to write her lyrics after witnessing how her sick friend had found solace in Matthew 10:29-31, which reads:

“Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. But even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.”

At her friend’s bedside, it was this verse that inspired her to write “His Eye is on the Sparrow.”

Rendition #2: Lauryn Hill and Tanya Blount – His Eye Is On The Sparrow

The Music Behind Gabriel’s Melody

Charles Gabriel wrote the music for “His Eye is on the Sparrow” after reading Civilla’s lyrics.

Gabriel composed thousands of gospel songs in his lifetime, such as “I Stand Amazed in the Presence,” “Since Jesus Came Into My Heart,” and “Higher Ground.”

Rendition #3: Whitney Houston – His Eye Is On The Sparrow

The Legacy of His Eye is On The Sparrow

Since it was first published in 1905, “His Eye is on the Sparrow” has become one of the most beloved Christian songs ever written.

Countless artists have recorded and performed their own renditions of this timeless hymn, including Mahalia Jackson, Ethel Waters, Marvin Gaye, and even Whitney Houston.

It continues to be used as part of worship services around the world—a testament to its power in bringing comfort and peace to believers everywhere.

Rendition #4: Keith and Kristyn – His Eye Is On The Sparrow

Final Words on His Eye is On The Sparrow

“His Eye Is On The Sparrow” remains one of Christianity’s most beloved hymns today thanks to its powerful message about God’s love for us all regardless of our circumstances or backgrounds.

Though it was written nearly 120 years ago, its timeless message still resonates with people around the world who seek comfort in knowing that God always has His eye upon us no matter what we may face in life. What an incredible reminder of His love!