I'm trying to make a logical decision about my future, but these stories seem to encourage just waiting for miracles. Is there any evidence of a devotee's own effort being involved, or is it all just divine intervention?

This is an astute observation. The narrative in Chapter 51 actually illustrates a partnership between human effort and divine grace, not a passive waiting for miracles. Kakasaheb Dixit and Madhavrao made a conscious decision to travel to Shirdi, took the portrait, went to the station, and bought their tickets. Their effort was sincere. It was only when they encountered an obstacle beyond their control—the completely full train—that divine intervention occurred. The train guard's sudden appearance resolved the issue, allowing their initial efforts to succeed. The story suggests that we should apply our own effort and make logical plans, but also maintain faith that when we face insurmountable challenges, a higher power can provide support in unexpected ways, augmenting our actions rather than replacing them.