Answer
The living entity always retains free will.
Srila Prabhupada explains that a person may suffer greatly due to bad karma. Then, after chanting Hare Krishna and practicing devotional service, he experiences relief and improved circumstances.
At that point he may think:
"Now that things are better, I can leave devotional service and succeed materially."
What he does not realize is that the material world itself has not changed. The same cycle of suffering still exists.
Therefore, one must develop transcendental knowledge through association with authorized devotees and by hearing properly.
Without transcendental understanding, a person may become distracted by temporary improvements in material conditions.
Krishna is not impatient.
If a devotee decides to pursue material enjoyment, Krishna remains in the heart and patiently accompanies him. When the time is right, Krishna again creates opportunities for that person to return to devotional service.
The Lord never abandons the soul.
