How does the story of Balasaheb Deo illustrate Sai Baba's method of fulfilling a devotee's wish for spiritual progress?

The story of Balasaheb Deo in Chapter 41 demonstrates Sai Baba's unique way of guiding devotees. Deo had a sincere wish to read the Dnyaneshwari but was blocked by internal and external obstacles. Instead of a direct, immediate solution, Baba first tested Deo's faith and obedience by requesting dakshina of twenty rupees on two separate occasions. He then drew Deo out of a crowd, where he was hiding in a corner, and invited him to sit close by with a calm mind. This sequence shows that Baba's method involves fostering patience, testing sincerity, and creating an intimate space for grace to be bestowed, rather than simply granting a request on demand. By making Deo wait and surrender fully, Baba prepared him to receive the blessing he sought, showing that the Guru's timing and method are perfect for the devotee's true development.