Why is associating with saints or the Guru considered so important for a devotee, especially one in distress?

Associating with saints is presented as a powerful remedy for life's struggles. Chapter 18 explains that when a soul falls into great distress, the Lord of the Universe may arrange a meeting with a saint. This association is transformative; it is said that "even a moment's association with a saint makes the restless mind steady." The mind then immediately attaches itself to the feet of Hari, and it becomes difficult to pull it away. The text also emphasizes that by being devoted to the Truth, listening to the stories of saints, and bowing at their feet, one's sins will be washed away, and the Guru, like a wish-fulfilling tree, removes all exhaustion.