Self-Deception: A Supporting Column of Addiction

Self-deception is a necessary part to maintaining an addiction. It also characterizes every human heart. In this audio talk, Langberg focuses on understanding the mechanism of self-deception and how it works in the service of an addiction as well as other sinful behaviors. The problem of deception is first identified in victims through the suffering they have endured and the lies they carry about themselves, this world, and God. Then the power of deception is identified in oppressors, and in the many ways they deceive themselves and others to control victims and manage exposure. Deception is always present within the abuser, and it is often present within the victim too. The reality for every counselor is that self-deception exists in our own hearts too, and we must remind ourselves that we are more similar to those we try to help than different.