Meaning: The quote "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" by David Brainerd, a clergyman and missionary to the Native Americans in the 18th century, encapsulates the essence of a fervent and deeply spiritual approach to faith. The quote reflects the concept of ardent love and desire as being driven by a passionate longing to please and glorify the Divine Being, with the ultimate goal of conforming to the divine will and enjoying a profound connection to the divine.

David Brainerd was known for his intense piety and devotion to God, as well as his commitment to sharing the Christian faith with indigenous peoples in colonial America. His writings, including his famous journal, provide insight into the inner workings of his spiritual life and the fervor with which he pursued a life of faith and service.

The quote can be interpreted as a call to wholeheartedly embrace a life dedicated to the pursuit of divine conformity and intimacy with God. The use of the word "ardent" conveys a sense of fervor and passion, suggesting that this love and desire are not passive or lukewarm, but rather intense and deeply felt. It speaks to the idea that genuine spiritual devotion involves a passionate longing to please and glorify the Divine Being, indicating an active and enthusiastic pursuit of divine connection.

The notion of being "conformed to him" suggests a desire for alignment with the nature and will of the divine. This concept aligns with the Christian idea of sanctification – the process of becoming more like Christ through spiritual growth and transformation. It implies a striving for moral and spiritual conformity to the character of God, reflecting a deeply held aspiration for personal holiness and righteousness.

Furthermore, the quote alludes to the idea of "enjoying" the Divine Being, implying that the ultimate fulfillment of this ardent love and desire is found in a profound and joyful communion with God. This enjoyment is not merely passive, but rather an active and enriching experience of intimacy and connection with the divine. It suggests a deeply personal and experiential relationship with God, characterized by a sense of spiritual fulfillment and delight.

In essence, the quote by David Brainerd encapsulates a vision of spiritual passion and devotion that is characterized by ardent love, a longing for divine conformity, and the pursuit of joyful communion with the Divine Being. It reflects a deeply personal and experiential approach to faith, emphasizing the transformative power of spiritual intimacy and the profound fulfillment found in a life dedicated to glorifying and enjoying God. David Brainerd's words continue to inspire and challenge individuals in their spiritual journeys, inviting them to embrace a fervent pursuit of divine love and conformity to the will of the Divine Being.