Breaking Free from Self-Deception: A Lesson from 1 John 1:8

John warns us: “If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.”

Self-deception is subtle. It’s like carrying a heavy bag without realizing how tired it’s making you. We convince ourselves we’re okay, when really, we’re not. We convince ourselves that bitterness isn’t hurting us, that pride isn’t isolating us, that fear isn’t controlling us.

But here’s the beauty: God never asks us to pretend. He invites us to rest in the truth. Admitting we don’t have it all together doesn’t weaken us—it frees us.

Reflection: Where are you most tempted to say, “I’m fine” when you’re really not?