What is devotion, and is it necessary?

Whenever I find myself getting egoic, the form of worship (whether it’s god, guru or deity) becomes dualistic in nature. Almost unbearable to worship because the ego feels hurt and weak compared to the holy symbols of worship. A sense of ‘I’m better than you, why should I worship you?’. However, this feeling disappears whenever I find myself less egoic. I actually feel close to the form of worship, a deep spiritual connection uncovers. So what is devotion, and is it necessary? Should one who is deeply egoic, try to cultivate devotion even if it feels unbearably painful? Thank you!