David Brainerd (1718-1747) was an American Presbyterian minister and missionary to the Native Americans among the Delaware Indians of New Jersey.
David Brainerd Quotes
Was grieved that I could do so little for God before my bodily strength failed.
—David Brainerd
But let me tell you, my brother, eternity is another thing than we ordinarily take it to be in a healthful state. Oh, how vast and boundless! Oh, how fixed and unalterable! Oh, of what infinite importance is it, that we be prepared for eternity!
—David Brainerd
I enjoyed much more intenseness, fervency, and spirituality, than I expected; God was better to me than my fears.
—David Brainerd
Longed exceedingly for angelic holiness and purity, and to have all my thoughts, at all times, employed in divine and heavenly things.
—David Brainerd
O that my soul were holy, as he is holy! O that it were pure, even as Christ is pure; and perfect, as my Father in heaven is perfect!
—David Brainerd
Oh, methinks, if he would punish me for my sins, it would not wound my heart so deep to offend him: but though I sin continually, yet he continually repeats his kindness to me! Oh, methinks I could bear any sufferings; but how can I bear to grieve and dishonour this blessed God!
—David Brainerd
…what a death it is, to strive, and strive; to be always in a hurry, and yet do nothing, or at least nothing for God!
—David Brainerd
In the evening, the hand of faith seemed to be strengthened in God; my soul seemed to rest and acquiesce in him; was supported under my burdens, reading the 125th Psalm; and found that it was sweet and comfortable to lean on God.
—David Brainerd
Truly God is a ‘present help in time of trouble.’
—David Brainerd
…upon a day of thanksgiving kept in this place, I was enabled to recall and recount over the mercies of God, in such a manner as greatly affected me, and filled me with thankfulness and praise.
—David Brainerd
Prayer was so sweet an exercise to me, that I knew not how to cease, lest I should lose the spirit of prayer.
—David Brainerd
Blessed be the Lord, he is never unmindful of me, but always sends me needed supplies… when I am like one dead, he raises me to life.
—David Brainerd