The phrase is Latin, and loosely translated it means "Whether or not you ask for Him, God is present." I find a wonderful comfort in thinking that - it reflects on those who don't believe (or who haven't thought about Him) -- that he also watches over such people. But also, for those that do, whether or not we are actively seeking His voice, His presence or His comfort, He is always there.
It's said that Erasmus said this first, but I believe he attributed it elsewhere (some Spartan?). Carl Jung had this inscribed over his doorway and on his tomb.
Make every effort to add to your faith, goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self control; and to self control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love.
2 Peter 1:5-7