The effort of the individual is but half the pursuit; the other half consists in the Grace of God. Man fulfils himself, by self-effort as well as Divine Blessings; the fulfilment takes him across the dark ocean of dualities, on to the Immanent and Transcendent One. (RKRV Part I, p. 2)
If man makes but the slightest effort towards surrender, the Lord himself will confer the courage to pursue it to the end. He will walk with him and help him as a friend; He will lead him as a Guide; He will guard him from evil and temptation; He will be his staff and support. Krishna has said in Bhagavad Gita (Chapter 2:40) :
nehabhikrama-naso ‘sti pratyavayo na vidyate
svalpam apy Asya dharmasya trayate mahato bhayat
(This course of action, if followed even to a small extent, will save him from terrifying fear). (GV, p. 8)
The two guards who are there are Srama and Dama. The meaning of this is that you must make an effort and you must have patience. These are the two guards at the door. However much you offer yourself in surrender; it is not possible for you to enter God’s abode without Shram (effort) and Dama (patience). (SSB 1973, p. 130)
Never slacken effort, whatever the obstacle, however long the journey. the goal will grow nearer faster than the pace with which you approach the goal. God is as eager to save you as you are eager to be saved; He is Love... (L&L, p. 45)