The one who sits in heaven “looks down,” “gazes” at, and “considers” all the works of people. In other words, God is not a passive onlooker; God is an active observer. And he is not just vaguely looking down at people; he is looking at you. Psalm 32:8 is simply amazing. God says, “With my eye on you, I will give counsel.” As Psalm 33:18 says, “But look, the LORD keeps his eye on those who fear him.” What an amazing thought!

Psalm 33:13–19 emphasizes that God is looking at us because he loves us (v. 18). His observing eye reflects his loving heart. He has committed his love to his people and has promised to love them perfectly and eternally. He is not distant; he is personal. He watches us out of a loving heart to ensure we are kept alive and cared for (v. 18). No king, no president, no nation can ensure our safety (v. 16). No amount of money we have saved and no amount of insurance we have purchased can ultimately save us. If we put our hopes in those things, it is impossible for us to rejoice because none of them are certain. But God has promised his unfailing love toward us, and for that reason our hearts can rejoice.

One of the reasons believers have such a hard time responding with joyful songs and shouts of praise as in verses 1–3 is because they have never stopped to ponder the power of God’s word, God’s works, and God’s love. When we come to realize just how much God loves us and just how much he is working on our behalf, the burdens of our hearts will be lifted and his joy will permeate our lives. We do this by focusing on the gospel. The power of God’s word, work, and love are all seen most clearly in what God has done for us in Christ Jesus (Rom 8). When we trust in Christ alone as the payment for our sins and we are brought into the family of God, God treats us like sons and daughters. And since we are his children, God commits himself to us and ensures that we will always be under his loving care. As we think more clearly about Christ, we will come to know more of his joy.

Smith, J. Josh, and Daniel L. Akin. 2022. Exalting Jesus in Psalms 1–50. Edited by David Platt, Daniel L. Akin, and Tony Merida. Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary. Nashville, TN: Holman Reference.