Based on the text, what was the nature of the obstacles preventing Deo from his spiritual practice, and what does this signify about Sai's role?

The obstacles preventing Balasaheb Deo from reading the Dnyaneshwari were not merely external but also internal. Chapter 41 mentions that whenever he tried to read it, "some doubts would arise in the heart," which made the reading superficial and prevented love for the text from developing. This internal resistance persisted despite his strong desire. This entire situation illustrates a key theme: Sai's loving nature towards devotees. The narrative frames this struggle as a setup for a marvelous 'Leela' where Sai would eventually intervene, demonstrating that He wards off difficulties for those with a true taste for spiritual matters and gives them the company of self-bliss, fulfilling their wishes in His own time.