>> Your questions seem to have a Genesis 3 and Matthew 4 tone to them.
Ouch! That was harsh, brother. I don’t think I’d go *that* far.
CAN one’s own heart deceive them? That’s an honest question. One’s heart can certainly be “turned” by the LORD He hardened Pharaoh’s heart, and “The kings heart is a stream of water in the hand of the LORD; he turns it wherever he will” (prov. 21:1). Can Diabolos (the Twister) turn a man’s heart?
I can see it could be harsh. Not my intent. My intent was to point out only the adversary sows doubt. We as the Body of Christ encourage and exhort. So if I offended, my apologies.
On another note I am living proof (I know there are many others here too) that The Good Shepherd is faithful and true to smack us up side the head to get you back on the straight path. He is faithful and true to test our faith by putting it through the fire (reference Abraham and David).
This is done for us because He loves us. If someone wants assurance of their salvation then pray God tests your faith like He did by telling Abraham to sacrifice Isaac. Then gird your loins because God will be faithful and true in answering that prayer. God’s Almighty Divine Hand will move mountains to prove His control in our lives. His Grace is truly Amazing!