Helps for faith and patience in times of affliction In three parts. Viz. I. Sampson's riddle spiritualiz'd. II. Orthodox paradox: or, the greatest evil working the greatest eternal good. III. Heaven and earth epitomiz'd: or, invisibilities the greates realities. By James Burdwood late minister in Dartmouth. To which is added, A sure tryal of a Christian's state, by John Flavell, late minister (also) in Dartmouth.

To the rest of my Honoured Cousins.

May I obtain the Favour from you to spend a little of your little unexpired time in reading this small Book, and pray for a Blessing on what you read.

I am sure the Contents do nearly con∣cern you all: You are all travelling to another Country, Eternity is at hand, your Account is near, Time is precious, so are your Souls; the World is vain, the Heart is deceitful: Oh, could I prevail with you to spend some time in close Self∣examination, in constant heavenly Medi∣tation, in Watchfulness, in Self-denyal and Mortification, you would much en∣gage me, and advantage your own Souls. I pray the Blessing of God may go along

with this poor piece; there are many have better Heads, and better Hearts may do better.

Now, that you all, and your Relations old and young, may be taken into the Co∣venant of Grace, and may grow up in all things in Christ Jesus; that after our wearisom Pilgrimage in this Wilderness World, we may at last enter into the Pro∣mised Land, and enjoy that everlasting Rest, purchased by the most precious Blood of our dearest Lord, and there live with him for ever, is the earnest Prayer of

Your very affectionate and much obliged Kinsman, James Burdwood

Aug. 1. 1693.