Tim Maas Supporter Retired Quality Assurance Specialist with the U.S. Army

In my opinion, what God (speaking through David) is saying in this verse is that, if people look to Him for guidance and direction in how they should live their lives or make decisions, He will watch over them (or "keep His eye on them", as we would also say in idiomatic English), and respond to their need or request by instructing and teaching them.

As the next verse (verse 9) then admonishes, those seeking God's guidance should act wisely by willingly heeding His counsel and instruction, and behaving accordingly, as contrasted with less compliant people, who will not heed counsel or advice (even if it is intended for their benefit) unless they are compelled to do so.

I view this as somewhat similar to the thought expressed by Solomon in Proverbs 3:5-6.

November 08 2017 • 2 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report

Jack Gutknecht Supporter Arizona Bible College graduate and Dallas Seminary graduate

Great question, Craig! 

Yes, Psalm 32:8 (ESV) says:

"I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you."

This verse expresses God's personal guidance and care. The phrase "I will counsel you with my eye upon you" suggests not only instruction but also a watchful, loving oversight. It conveys the idea that God is not giving distant, impersonal guidance, but rather, He is intimately involved, watching over His people as He leads them.

Cross references to your Psalms verse, Craig, according to Warren Wiersbe (Table of Contents) would be Psalm 33:18 and 34:15:

Psalm 33:18 (ESV): "Behold, the eye of the Lord is on those who fear him, on those who hope in his steadfast love."
Psalm 34:15 (ESV): "The eyes of the Lord are toward the righteous and his ears toward their cry."

These verses reinforce that God’s eye represents His attentive care and favor toward His people. He sees their path, protects them, and ensures they walk in His ways. This isn't just guidance like a roadmap—it's an ongoing, relational leadership where He corrects, encourages, and directs with deep love and concern

Scripture Memory Songs has a great song about your verse, called, "The Way You Should Go (Psalm 32:8 – NIV)"

"Precious Promise" -- a hymn by Nathaniel Niles (published in 130 hymnals, hymnary.org)

[Narrator speaking]

Precious promise God has given
To the weary passerby,
On the way from earth to Heaven,
“I will guide thee with Mine eye.”

Refrain [God speaking]

I will guide thee, I will guide thee,
I will guide thee with Mine eye
On the way from earth to Heaven,
I will guide thee with Mine eye.

When temptations almost win thee
And thy trusted watchers fly,
Let this promise ring within thee,
“I will guide thee with Mine eye.”

Refrain

When thy secret hopes have perished
In the grave of years gone by,
Let this promise still be cherished,
“I will guide thee with Mine eye.”

Refrain

When the shades of life are falling
And the hour has come to die,
Hear thy trusty Pilot calling,
“I will guide thee with Mine eye.”

Refrain

6 days ago • 1 response • Vote Up • Share • Report