Premanand Maharaj Ji
Will massaging a saint's feet or giving him food count as seva if I ignore his instruction?
Obedience over outer service
Pressing feet, washing clothes or giving food is not the special thing; following his instruction is. Without it, the fruit of saint seva is not received.
Following instruction is the hardest task. Following the saints' instruction. If we manage to follow it, Bhagwan becomes pleased.