Allan Kardec. The book of spirits (№ 396702)

It is true that spirits act on matter, but only the execution of the laws of nature, not the violation of them by producing the event of unexpected and contrary to the laws. In the example given to you, the ladder broke because it was undermined by worms at all, or were not strong enough to withstand the weight of the person; if he was destined to die in this way, the spirits could inspire him with the idea to climb this ladder, which must break under the weight of his body; thus his death varies from natural causes, and there is no need to resort to miracle.