Answer
Now, when a pure devotee spiritual master comes into the material world, he appears externally to take birth in a particular family, grow up like an ordinary person, attend school, and perform common worldly activities. But in due course of time, it becomes revealed through his actions and teachings that he is a pure devotee.
His life gradually becomes seen as being almost completely dedicated to spiritual service. Even in the early stages, his consciousness is actually fully spiritual, although externally it may not appear so. As time passes, however, this becomes increasingly evident.
The apparent suffering experienced by a pure devotee is also meant as a lesson for us. Even amidst difficulties such as ill health or other inconveniences, the pure devotee never stops devotional service. Under all circumstances, including bodily discomfort and sickness, he continues serving Krishna without interruption.
Therefore, the pure devotee does not suffer in the same way ordinary conditioned souls suffer. Externally, he may appear to pass through various situations just like any other person, but the essential difference lies in his consciousness. His consciousness is fully absorbed in Krishna consciousness at all times, and that transcendental consciousness makes all the difference.
