If we are inert, we will never be able to make spiritual advancement. This is because devotional service is based on desire; it is voluntary. Devotional service begins when the soul decides to act for Krsna’s pleasure. If the soul is being forced to act in that way, then we cannot call his actions devotional.
Lectures from a disciple, Vol 1, p. 327. Bhaktyaloka, Kishinev, 4.14.99