It is the Lord who authenticates the good qualities in the living entity; it is the Lord who recognizes these qualities. Therefore, if one is engaged in mental speculation under the external feature of the Lord, whatever qualities one may manifest are not recognized by the Lord. The Lord only recognizes that person who is engaged in unflinching, unalloyed devotional service to Him. Thus, when the Lord recognizes the living entity, that living entity automatically develops these qualities. Some living entities may manifest them to some degree, but they are only fully manifested when the Lord, Himself, manifests them. This is one of the characteristics of the Lord—He magnifies the qualities of His devotees.
(Caitanya Caritamrita Lectures Book, Adi Lila: 8.33–49 Kiev—April 29, 2000, Pg 83)