What is the broader lesson for devotees that is illustrated by Appasaheb's story of hesitation?

Appasaheb's story serves as a moral lesson for all devotees. Chapter 33 explains that his experience highlights a common human failing: we are often devoted to making "verbal promises" but then show "much hesitation" when the time comes to act. Our spirit becomes downcast, and we lack certainty. The narrative suggests Baba appeared as a Fakir as a pretext for Dakshina to add "flavor" to the story and teach this very lesson. The ultimate point is to show that a true devotee, a "ruby of Hari," is one who acts exactly as they have spoken and proves their word to be true, overcoming the gap between intention and action.