תהלים, פרק ל״ד, פסוק ט״ז

God maintains a constant, watchful presence over those who follow His paths, actively seeing to their needs and listening closely to their prayers. A person who chooses to live with a deep respect and awe for God is considered truly righteous [רד״ק, מאירי]. God watches over these individuals, guarding them wherever they go. He personally looks into what they might be missing and ensures they are never left isolated or helpless [רד״ק, מלבי״ם, מאירי, ביאור שטיינזלץ].

This divine watchfulness operates through two distinct avenues: the attribute of mercy and the attribute of strict justice. While others might face the harshness of strict justice, the righteous are able to transform that justice into mercy. As a result, both attributes work together entirely for their benefit and protection [אלשיך].

God's constant care is paired with a readiness to listen, a combination of seeing and hearing that represents His absolute knowledge of everything, whether hidden or out in the open [אבן עזרא]. If trouble strikes and a righteous person cries out for help, God listens to their prayer and rescues them from their distress [רד״ק, מאירי, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. He already watches over them and brings them goodness before they even ask, yet He pays close attention to their calls simply because He desires to hear their prayers [אלשיך]. Furthermore, there are times when a righteous person might cry out about a situation they believe is bad, even if it is not actually harmful in reality. Even in these moments, God answers them and grants their request [מלבי״ם].