13 Quotes & Sayings By David Brainerd

David Brainerd (1734-1813) was a Scottish minister and the first American to write a book about his experiences as a missionary in Brazil. He was also the first to use the term "emotional intelligence." The following books by Brainerd were published: An Account of the Society and Conversation of the Indians of North America (1767); An Account of the Habits and Customs of Savage Nations (1780); and A Narrative of David Brainerd's Travels and Sufferings in North America (1792). The last work is considered one of the best accounts of missionary life in Brazil, and is sometimes called "the first Christian travel book." (N.B.: The 1792 edition includes letters from Brainerd written in Brazil.)

1
Ardent love or desire introduced, as passionately longing to please and glorify the Divine Being, to be in every respect conformed to him, and in that way to enjoy him. David Brainerd
2
The all-seeing eye of God beheld our deplorable state infinite pity touched the heart of the Father of mercies and infinite wisdom laid the plan of our recovery. David Brainerd
3
We are a long time in learning that all our strength and salvation is in God. David Brainerd
4
Once more, Never think that you can live to God by your own power or strength; but always look to and rely on him for assistance, yea, for all strength and grace. David Brainerd
5
If you hope for happiness in the world, hope for it from God, and not from the world. David Brainerd
6
I bless God for this retirement: I never was more thankful for any thing than I have been of late for the necessity I am under of self-denial in many respects. David Brainerd
7
We should always look upon ourselves as God's servants, placed in God's world, to do his work; and accordingly labour faithfully for him; not with a design to grow rich and great, but to glorify God, and do all the good we possibly can. David Brainerd
8
The all-seeing eye of God beheld our deplorable state infinite pity touched the heart of the Father of mercies and infinite wisdom laid the plan of our recovery. David Brainerd
9
I fear God never showed mercy to one so vile as I. David Brainerd
10
I have a secret thought from some things I have observed, that God may perhaps design you for some singular service in the world. David Brainerd
11
My disorder has been attended with several symptoms of a consumption; and I have been at times apprehensive that my great change was at hand: yet blessed be God, I have never been affrighted; but, on the contrary, at times much delighted with a view of its approach. David Brainerd
12
I am an old sinner; and if God had designed mercy for me, he would have called me home to himself before now. David Brainerd