Answer
This is a gradual process of purification.
At the same time that we perform devotional service, we must steadily increase our association with Kṛṣṇa through attentive chanting, hearing, reading the scriptures, and sincere sādhana.
Simultaneously, we should strive to improve the quality of our devotional offering.
Mixed devotional service naturally contains some element of personal motivation. Even when we sincerely try to serve without selfish desires, subconscious motivations often remain.
Therefore, no one should prematurely think, "My devotional service is completely pure."
One may honestly say, "As far as I am consciously aware, I am sincerely trying to serve Kṛṣṇa." Beyond that, there are many subconscious impressions accumulated over countless lifetimes that continue to influence our behavior.
There is no need to become discouraged by this.
The Supersoul resides within the heart as Guru and Kṛṣṇa. He is gradually guiding us and burning away these unwanted desires as we continue the process of devotional service.
Our responsibility is to remain alert.
We should not rush through devotional service mechanically, like a bull charging forward without reflection.
Instead, we should regularly examine ourselves:
Is false ego influencing my service?
Is fruitive mentality entering my consciousness?
Why am I seeking this particular result?
What is motivating me?
This self-examination is an essential part of devotional life.
When we engage in preaching, temple construction, management, fundraising, or other large services, there are actually two challenges before us:
Producing results for the mission.
Simultaneously purifying our own heart.
Both challenges must be addressed together.
Otherwise, even if society praises our external achievements, genuine spiritual advancement may not occur.
When devotees successfully collect funds or accomplish major services, the Vaiṣṇava community naturally glorifies them. Such appreciation should not be artificially stopped, because glorifying devotees is itself recommended in the scriptures.
Rather, the real test is for the devotee receiving that praise.
He must not absorb the glory as his own. Instead, he should recognize:
These opportunities were given by Śrīla Prabhupāda.
These abilities belong to Kṛṣṇa.
Whatever success has come is the Lord's mercy.
In this way, glorification becomes another opportunity for purification.
A devotee's true measure of success is not the recognition he receives from others.
His real success is measured within his own heart.
Therefore, every devotee's first and most important project is not an external project—it is the cultivation of his own Kṛṣṇa consciousness.
