A Gift for Mourners by Richard Cecil and John Flavel
Richard Cecil proclaims: “Let us study the heavenly science of gaining by losses, and rising by depressions.” Death and mourning produce “a cry, which, while it rouses the sleeper, fills his eyes with tears and his heart with pangs; often produces such views of God, of the present, and of the eternal state,” like nothing else. John Flavel outlines many practical aspects of mourning in a healthy manner. John Newton’s letter urges readers to keep a balance between overvaluing and undervaluing social relationships. Jonathan Edwards’ letter emphasizes that the Lord Jesus Christ is our portion, rest, hope, and joy. This is a book of rich scriptural help and advice for mourning; much of which can be applied to any affliction.
Paperback 6X9, 122 pages, ISBN 9781946145130
Richard Cecil (1748–1810) was born in London, England. He studied at Queens college, Oxford in 1773, he was ordained deacon in 1776, and he became priest in 1777. When he served three churches in Leicestershire, he found little real religion and he helped people to become believers. He then moved to be rector at Lewes. His longest ministry was in 1780 when he became minister at St. John’s Bedford Row. When in 1798 he became sick, he was unable to preach. But in 1800 he moved to Chobham and Bisley, where he found unbelieving people. Then in 1807 he became very sick and died 1810.
John Flavel (1630–1691) was born at Bromsgrove in Worcesterchire, England. His father, Richard Flavel, was a reverend also. He was educated at University College, Oxford. In 1650 he became rector at Diptford, Devonshire and stayed for six years. He moved to Dartmouth in 1656. In 1662 he was removed for non-conformity to the Act of Uniformity, but he continued to preach in private. During this time he moved around to Slapton, Dartmouth, and London. He was married four times, and died of paralysis in Exeter.
