Civilla Durfee Martin Grave

Hymn History: His Eye Is on the Sparrow & Author: Civilla D. Martin

“Civilla Durfee Martin … was a schoolteacher with a modest musical training. She and her husband, Walter Stillman Martin, often wrote gospel songs for revival meetings.”
(C. Michael Hawn)

The Origin of the Hymn “His Eye Is on the Sparrow”

Few hymns have touched as many hearts or brought as much comfort in times of trial as “His Eye Is on the Sparrow.” With its tender assurance that God watches over every believer, it has been sung by countless Christians around the world, from humble country churches to grand concert halls. The song was born from a simple conversation, yet it has carried a message of divine care for more than a century.

The hymn’s lyrics were written in 1905 by Civilla Durfee Martin, with music composed by Charles Hutchinson Gabriel, one of the most prolific gospel composers of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Together, they created a hymn that perfectly captures the spirit of Jesus’ 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… Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows.”

The Inspiration: A Visit to a Sick Friend

The story behind the hymn’s creation is one of the most touching in hymn history. Civilla Martin (1866–1948) and her husband, the Rev. Walter Stillman Martin, were visiting friends in Elmira, New York, in the spring of 1905. Among their acquaintances was a couple named Mr. and Mrs. Doolittle, both of whom were strong Christians despite severe physical afflictions.

Mrs. Doolittle had been bedridden for nearly twenty years, while her husband was confined to a wheelchair. Yet, despite their hardships, they were known throughout the community for their cheerful faith and unshakable trust in God.

During the visit, Civilla Martin asked Mrs. Doolittle the secret of her bright outlook on life, given her condition. The reply she received would inspire one of the greatest hymns of all time.

Mrs. Doolittle smiled and said simply, “His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me.”

Those words struck Civilla deeply. She later wrote that the statement “quickly set the theme of the hymn.” On their return home to Elmira, the Martins reflected on the conversation and the faith that shone through their friends’ lives. That evening, Civilla penned the poem “His Eye Is on the Sparrow.”

The Music: Charles H. Gabriel’s Melodic Gift

Once Civilla Martin completed the text, she sent it to Charles H. Gabriel (1856–1932), a prominent composer and editor of gospel songs. Gabriel had already written melodies for many enduring hymns, including “O That Will Be Glory for Me” and “Send the Light.”

Gabriel immediately saw the power in Martin’s words and set them to a melody of tender devotion and quiet confidence. The result was a song that perfectly matched the text’s spirit—a gentle, lilting tune that rises and falls like a bird in flight, embodying both the simplicity and strength of Christian faith.

When first published in 1905, “His Eye Is on the Sparrow” appeared in several gospel songbooks and quickly gained popularity in churches across America. Its comforting message resonated with people from all walks of life, especially those facing illness, grief, or uncertainty.

The Message of the Hymn

The hymn’s opening lines immediately establish its theme of trust amid trial:

Why should I feel discouraged?
Why should the shadows come?
Why should my heart be lonely,
And long for heaven and home?

Each stanza leads to the refrain, which echoes the words of Jesus:

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.

It is not a song of triumphalism, but of quiet assurance. It acknowledges the existence of sorrow, shadows, and loneliness, but counters them with faith in God’s watchful love. The imagery of the sparrow—one of the smallest and most overlooked of birds—serves as a perfect metaphor for human frailty and divine compassion.

Through its simple poetry and memorable refrain, the hymn reminds believers that no circumstance escapes God’s notice, and no life is too small for His care.

Early Popularity and Lasting Influence

By the early 20th century, “His Eye Is on the Sparrow” had become a favorite in revival meetings and gospel services. It was particularly cherished among African American congregations, who found in its message a deep source of comfort during times of suffering and struggle.

The hymn gained even wider fame through the voice of Ethel Waters (1896–1977), a celebrated gospel and jazz singer. Waters adopted the song as her personal testimony and often performed it at Billy Graham Crusades and other Christian gatherings. Her heartfelt rendition gave new life to the hymn, helping it reach audiences around the world.

Over the years, countless artists—from Mahalia Jackson and Whitney Houston to gospel choirs and soloists—have recorded the song, each finding in it a personal expression of faith and hope.

 Legacy of Comfort

The story of “His Eye Is on the Sparrow” continues to touch hearts today, just as it did over a century ago. Born from the faith of a bedridden woman, expressed by a compassionate hymnwriter, and set to music by a master composer, the hymn stands as a timeless witness to God’s loving care.

In every age, believers find reassurance in its refrain: that the same God who watches over the sparrow watches over them too.

“Let not your heart be troubled,” His tender word I hear,
And resting on His goodness, I lose my doubts and fears.”

Through all life’s trials, “His Eye Is on the Sparrow” remains a gentle reminder that even in our weakest moments, God’s eye is upon us, and His love never fails.