1 Thessalonians 4:13

"We want you to know the truth about those who have died, so that you will not be sad, as are those who have no hope."

Paul is implying that people who do not know Christ are hopeless. My experience indicates that this is a true statement. In a deep way, very thoughtful and philosophical people I'm friends with are jealous of my faith. They say it, too.

"I wish I had faith like yours. Things would be a lot easier."

Are these people prevented from believing actively by God, or do they have some kind of block against the necessary steps to trust in God?

I sense that people who are jealous of faith are closer to faith than people who don't care.