25 And the first fruits of repentance is baptism; and baptism cometh by faith unto the fulfilling the commandments; and the fulfilling the commandments bringeth remission of sins;

26 And the remission of sins bringeth meekness, and lowliness of heart; and because of meekness and lowliness of heart cometh the visitation of the Holy Ghost, which Comforter filleth with hope and perfect love, which love endureth by diligence unto prayer, until the end shall come, when all the saints shall dwell with God.
There’s a lot to think about from this scripture: the role of humility in our ongoing efforts to grow spiritually, the role of the spirit in our conversion, and the moment(s) of conversion, etc. Maybe those verses in Moroni may help guide you, a bit, in your pondering and seeking.

Here is a question similar to yours, that may have crossed your mind: Can conversion be both an event and a process? Or, in other words, can we be clean, repentant, etc, but still not be mature spiritually or completely sanctified? I think, “Yes”, and “Yes”. You can read a lot about what it means to be worthy, as well as what conversion looks like, from the brethren in Conference talks.
Your question is a good one, and Gramps answered much more succinctly than I ever could ( as is obvious below). But, I just wanted you to know you are NOT alone in your desire to understand worthiness, being spiritually mature, sanctified, etc.
Years ago, as a young woman preparing to enter the temple to receive my endowments, I questioned my readiness and wondered if I was worthy to enter. I even began second-guessing my worthiness by my past mistakes (of which I had repented and felt forgiven). I wanted to be prepared to receive further blessings from the Lord, but was so worried that I wouldn’t be able to live up to the covenants I’d be making. My Mom saw my doubts, and she simply said, “the Lord knows you’re heart. You don’t have to be perfect, just worthy (clean).” I felt faith and hope replace my fears. That’s what light and truth do. They teach, edify, and uplift, and you along that path. Im so grateful I didn’t have to be “perfect” in keeping the commandments before entering the temple; it is what has allowed me to grow and increase in knowledge and faith. Although I did prepare, I wasn’t able to understand everything at first. It just came line upon line. I continue to use this as a model for other aspects of my faith, and progression in it.

Just a side note– Seeking answers to specific questions I’ve had (especially in the Book of Mormon) are key to my growth and understanding of doctrines and precepts. I trust you will have similar blessings come to you as well, as you ask in faith, and ponder the scriptures, and modern day teachings from our prophets, seers, and revelators.

I believe your question is one of Sanctification vs Justification, which for me I am just beginning to grasp. Sanctification is the process of becoming like our Savior-it takes time, ongoing work, and faith on our part; spiritual cleansing takes place as we repent and obey his commandments, and can only be given by The Holy Ghost. Justification, on the other hand, is a divine edict of sorts, a moment in time when we’re declared worthy and clean of sin. Therefore, one can be justified (an event), but still be in need of sanctification. I hope we can continue on that journey of faith, the both of us.