From Hidden Obedience to Ordained Ministry: David Brainerd’s Early Calling | Jonathan Edwards

Deep Dive into The Life And Diary Of David Brainerd by Jonathan Edwards - From His Beginning to Instruct the Indians at Kaunaumeek, to His OrdinationDavid Brainerd’s diary from April 1743 to June 1744 chronicles the intense spiritual and physical struggles of a young missionary dedicated to reaching Native American communities. Stationed initially at Kaunaumeek, Brainerd lived a life of extreme deprivation, often sleeping on straw, eating meager meals of boiled corn, and enduring the "howling wilderness" alone. His health was a constant burden; he frequently suffered from fevers, severe pain, and exhaustion brought on by hard manual labor—such as building his own cottage—and long journeys through brutal cold and rain.Brainerd’s internal world was characterized by dramatic emotional fluctuations. He was often overwhelmed by "depths of distress" and a crushing sense of his own "vileness" and unworthiness, frequently lamenting his past pride and "party zeal." These periods of deep melancholy sometimes led him to long for death as a release from his perceived sinfulness. However, these dark intervals were punctuated by moments of profound spiritual "sweetness" and "consolation." During these times, he felt a "filial freedom" in prayer and a renewed passion for the advancement of Christ's kingdom, finding peace in the "infinite glories" of God.A recurring theme in his writing is the "misimprovement of time." Brainerd was obsessively diligent, filling his hours with prayer, fasting, studying the Indian tongue, and preaching. He also sought reconciliation with Yale College after a past conflict, though his humble attempts were repeatedly rejected. Despite his constant self-doubt and physical frailty, his commitment remained unshaken. The period culminates in his ordination in June 1744, an event he approached with a heavy sense of the "important trust" committed to him. Ultimately, the sources depict a man who, while viewing himself as a "wretch," remained tirelessly devoted to his mission and the pursuit of "angelic holiness."Reformed Theologian GPT: https://chat.openai.com/g/g-XXwzX1gnv-reformed-theologianYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@ReformedExplainerSpotify Music: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1t5dz4vEgvHqUknYQfwpRI?si=e-tDRFR2Qf6By1sAcMdkdwhttps://buymeacoffee.com/edi2730