Answer
Yes—to remain constantly situated in a devotional state of consciousness, the consciousness itself must become purified. This purification does not happen instantly; it is gradual and develops over time through sincere devotional practice.
The more we engage in devotional service and surround ourselves with devotional association, the more our consciousness becomes spiritualized. We associate with the holy name, with the Deities, with scriptures such as the Bhagavad-gita and Srimad Bhagavatam, and with devotees. When our activities are centered on Krishna consciousness, spiritual awareness steadily deepens.
At the same time, we should remember that as long as we remain in the material world, we are still subject to the influence of the material modes and materialistic association. Because of this, one must be cautious. Excessive association with materialistic people or environments can gradually pull the consciousness away from spiritual absorption and back toward material consciousness.
Therefore, until we attain the spiritual world, vigilance is necessary. Outside the temple, outside the home, and beyond one’s regular devotional circle, one should remain careful about the kinds of association one accepts and the atmosphere one absorbs.
Chaitanya Mahaprabhu instructed that the association of those who are not seriously interested in spiritual life should be avoided. Such association weakens devotion. Giving up unfavorable association is considered proper conduct for a Vaishnava and is an essential principle of devotional life.
