not aided, he is not able to do either good or evil. But
when the help of existence comes from the Generous Lord, he is able to do
both good and evil; but if the help is cut off, he remains absolutely
helpless. This is why in the Holy Books they speak of the help and
assistance of God. So this condition is like that of a ship which is moved
by the power of the wind or steam; if this power ceases, the ship cannot
move at all. Nevertheless, the rudder of the ship turns it to either side,
and the power of the steam moves it in the desired direction. If it is
directed to the east, it goes to the east; or if it is directed to the
west, it goes to the west. This motion does not come from the ship; no, it
comes from the wind or the steam.

In the same way, in all the action or inaction of man, he receives power
from the help of God; but the choice of good or evil belongs to the man
himself. So if a king should appoint someone to be the governor of a city,
and should grant him the power of authority, and should show him the paths
of justice and injustice according to the laws--if then this governor
should commit injustice, although he should act by the authority and power
of the king, the latter would be absolved from injustice. But if he should
act with justice, he would do it also through the authority of the king,
who would be pleased and satisfied.

That is to say, though the choice of good and evil belongs to man, under
all circumstances he is dependent upon the sustaining help of life, which
comes from the Omnipotent. The Kingdom of God is very great, and all are
captives in the grasp of His Power. The servant cannot do anything by his
own will; God is powerful, omnipotent, and the Helper of all beings.

This question has become clearly explained. Salutations!

71: VISIONS AND COMMUNICATION WITH SPIRITS

Question.--Some people believe that they achieve spiritual discoveries--that
is to say, that they converse with spirits. What kind of communion is
this?

Answer.--Spiritual discoveries are of two kinds: one kind is of the
imagination and is only the assertion of a few people; the other kind
resembles inspiration, and this is real--such are the revelations of
Isaiah, of Jeremiah and of St. John, which are real.

Reflect that man's power of thought consists of two kinds. One kind is
true, when it agrees with a determined truth. Such conceptions find
realization in the exterior world; such are accurate opinion