HOW TO OVERCOME BAD INFLUENCES

 

Such influences may be overcome by simply rising above them. The lingering belief in evil influences, of Satan and his fiends, is the open gateway for the entrance of disturbing influences. In such cases the lower nature is more susceptible than the higher, and the tendency is downward.

 

We are all individual spirits, and we have the right and power to assert that individuality and rise above all and every influence. To make such assertion is a duty demanded of us, each and every one. If disturbing— what we call evil—influences come, we should first cleanse ourselves, by turning constantly to the highest and purest and inflexibly hold ourselves independent of all influences, and able to determine the order that shall enter our sphere.

 

Thinking of the undesired influence, and talking about it with friends, is an exciting cause, and should be discontinued. Those thus sensitive often talk about their troubles until every shadowy whim becomes reality and fastens on the mind with an energy increasing at every recital. The only advice is that given to those suffering from physical disease: Do not think about it, do not talk about it. Think: and talk about things above and beyond.

 

The advice of spirits should not be taken unless reasonable, and they may not understand the situation as well as those they seek to benefit.

 

Education is not necessary to inspiration, but it is to its highest tide. It is not necessary that this education be received in schools or colleges. Education is the training of the mind to clearly receive and perfectly express ideas. Inspiration, or the sensitive state—mediumship—may be made most helpful in education. If the sensitive patiently cultivates his receptivity, and is not eager to exploiter to the public before the necessary long and severe training. He cannot go before the public like a trumpet, to be spoken through. Such attempts have been dismal failures, except in a few rare instances apparently exceptional, but not so, because of the inherent endowment of the instruments employed. The great minds of earth have been receptive—sensitive—and the wisdom they have displayed has been inspired. They have become so by their organization and training. Having studied statecraft, the great statesman is prepared and does receive his best thoughts from departed statesmen. Through the sensitive preacher, preachers of the past find tongue. The man of science has skill and faithfulness, but beyond he receives impressions from those in the higher sphere who have studied the special subjects then engaging his attention. There is a sensitiveness of organization which makes its possessor an instrument, such as it is. This sensitiveness by culture becomes receptivity, the highest form of mediumship. This culture may be made, and often is, by education, and training the mind to concentrated efforts in special directions, and the recipient be unconscious of its possession. What a mighty force it then is possible for it to become when its laws and conditions are understood.