I’ve been there. For over a year I worked with a broken life much like the one you describe. I thought “I” was making headway when one day he really got ticked at me when I told him (for the millionth time) that he had to start taking responsibility for himself. He opened the door at the next red light, got out, slammed the door and walked out of my life (after my wife and I had made huge time, trouble and money investments in his life).
I saw him again many years later in an inner city rooming hotel. Nothing had really changed. He didn’t even recognize me. I often wondered if we had really heard the Lord in making the investment we did.

Years later I realized that it was very possible that people who had eaten loaves and fish from Jesus’ hand had in the end raised their hands and shouted “Crucify Him!” And I realized all over again His motivation was compassion for humanity and not just another page in His ’success book’.

The pupil is not greater than the Teacher.

We all have those messy friends whose lives seem to be filled with turmoil, but our example of a life lived with peace is worth offering to them.

Keep caring, Darrin!

there was something about the way he kept telling me, “I really f-ed this up”, that made me realize that God was already working here.

I wish more people could hear the voice of God when he uses this kind of language

Thanks