Self-deception
“Let him not deceive himself by trusting what is worthless, for he will get nothing in return"(NIV) Job 15:31
All living things are expected to grow and develop in all aspects of life. It is great and perfect to have the desire to get to your best in life. God expects all humans to maximize the talents he has given us to glorify him. In the parable of the talents, God was displeased about the man with one talent because he did not maximize his talent (Mathew 25:28).
Unfortunately, in an attempt to achieve the best on the universe, some use the wrong tools and the wrong routes in getting to the final destination. Many are now trying so hard to use the carnal mind to achieve eternal gains by deceiving and justifying ourselves.
God have given mankind the most powerful document or manual for daily living and success which is the Holy Scripture. Most people now prefer feeding on human motivational books which focuses on self-first in order to accumulate wealth. Now people trust in material wealth, pride, education, family and business rather than the Creator.
Many people have set themselves as standards and as the wisest, always seeing others faults and not yours (Proverbs 26:12). Redefining sin and righteousness by your own standards and desires (Isa 5:20, Luke 16:15). Lawlessness and shortcut are all in the name of making money to please ourselves (1Tim. 6:10).
To avoid self-deception, we should trust God rather than oneself (Prov. 3:5). Beware and conscious to think of who you are not. Examine yourself in the light of scriptures, remove obstacles from your life and be willing to accept what is right according to God. Fear God, be humble to God’s instructions, listen to others advice which is in line with scriptures and be honest.