Answer
They also require association and guidance.
This is why, before initiation, a Temple President generally recommends a devotee for initiation. Even after initiation, the Temple President remains a spiritual authority for that devotee.
A devotee should not think that initiation means he can now practice independently without guidance. Such an attitude will not lead to spiritual advancement.
Association with devotees (sadhu-sanga) is indispensable. Whether one lives in an ashram or is a congregational devotee, one must remain connected to the devotee community and receive guidance from authorized senior devotees.
A congregational devotee should never think:
"Because I do not live in the temple, I no longer need to follow the guidance of the temple authorities."
Such independence often leads to false ego. A person may begin thinking:
"I have achieved so much."
But that mentality cannot sustain spiritual life.
When performing devotional service—whether distributing books or any other service—Srila Prabhupada expects two things:
The proper devotional attitude.
Sincere effort to produce results in Krishna's service.
For example, if a devotee distributes many books, Srila Prabhupada is certainly pleased. However, if that success inflates the devotee's false ego, then spiritual strength gradually diminishes.
Externally, the devotee may become more successful, but internally spiritual power decreases. Eventually, such pride can weaken one's ability to follow the regulative principles and even lead to spiritual downfall.
Success should nourish humility—not false prestige.
Sometimes devotees verbally say:
"It is all Srila Prabhupada's mercy."
But internally they take personal credit. That is simply lip service.
Therefore, devotees living outside the temple should remain connected to the temple, seek guidance from authorized devotees, and faithfully follow the instructions they receive.
In this way they remain spiritually protected and continue to make steady advancement. Otherwise, they may continue practicing externally but will gradually lose the inner happiness and spiritual growth that come through genuine association and guidance.
