Self-deception proves especially dangerous. Galatians 6:3 employs this rare compound verb: 'If anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself (φρεναπατᾷ ἑαυτόν).' The compound structure (φρήν = mind + ἀπατάω = deceive) literally means 'mind-deceive,' targeting the intellect or perception. This isn't emotional self-soothing but cognitive self-delusion—convincing yourself of falsehoods about your own status or worth. Paul's context involves thinking we're exempt from consequences or above mundane service. The reflexive construction (deceives himself) makes the pathology explicit: we become our own deceivers.