The answer
Humbleness is the main attribute we should have in our spiritual life and our relationship with the Lord. Without humbleness we will not be able to submit our lives to Him. With regard to prayer, St. Theophan the Recluse says, 'Stand with reverence before God, with the mind in the heart, and strive toward Him with longing.' Whether you are praying or reading the Holy Bible you have to have your mind tuned to the Lord so that you might hear Him when He converses with you. After you finish your prayers have some quiet time with the Lord listening to His words to you. When reading the Holy Bible, do not just read it for knowledge or because this is the right thing to do; but after every verse or few verses you read ask yourself 'what personal message is God revealing to me in these verses.' This is how to tune yourself to hear the Lord and His message to you.Persist on holding onto the Lord, praying and following His commandments knowing that this will make you a target for the devil's attacks to hinder your spiritual growth. However, since you know this is expected; you should be prepared; and do not let him deceive you. Our Lord Jesus Christ's response to Satan was "Away with you, Satan" (Mt 4:10) and this should be always our response the minute we realize we are tempted. Once a sinful thought comes to your mind; chase it away instantly preventing it from growing and controlling you.
One who really feels the presence of God cannot be but humble and feel unworthy to be standing before the Mighty Lord.
Answered by His Eminence Metropolitan Youssef (opens in a new tab)