How does the narrative use Balasaheb Deo's story to illustrate the nature of Sai Baba's relationship with his followers?

The story of Balasaheb Deo is presented in Chapter 41 as a prime example, or a "wager," of Sai Baba's loving and affectionate nature towards His devotees. The chapter begins by stating that Sai is especially dear to those with a "true taste for spiritual matters" and that He actively wards off their difficulties to give them "the company of self-bliss." Deo's struggle with the Dnyaneshwari was a spiritual difficulty, and his unwavering faith that Baba would personally intervene demonstrates this core principle. The entire anecdote serves to fulfill the promise that Sai would resolve Deo's issue and grant him the "addition of devotion," showcasing Baba's deep, personal involvement in the spiritual progress of his followers.