What is "taking refuge"?

Look up the word in the dictionary. Refuge is referred to as:
• a shelter or protection from danger and trouble
• a source of help, relief, or comfort in times of trouble.
• anything or anyone where you can seek aid, relief or escape

To take refuge means to seek out and acquire or accept refuge. It is finding a place to hide in a storm or when being chased. It is finding comfort when our heart is troubled. It is finding solace when we are sad or worried. It is, above all else, an action. Taking refuge requires that we do something in order to receive the refuge. We either have to go somewhere or ask someone for the help.

The Bible talks about taking refuge in many places. Here are just a few.
• 2 Samuel 22:31 “As for God, His way is blameless; The word of the LORD is tested; He is a shield to all who take refuge in Him.” NASB
• Psalm 2:12, “… All those who take refuge in Him are happy.” HCSB
• Psalm 5:11 “But let all who take refuge in You rejoice.” HCSB
• Psalm 16:1 “Protect me God, for I take refuge in you.” HCSB
• Psalm 118:8 “It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in man.” NASB
• Proverbs 30:5 “Every word of God is pure; He is a shield to those who take refuge in Him.” HCSB
• Nahum 1:7 “The LORD is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble, and He knows those who take refuge in Him.” NASB

Taking refuge in God is allowing him to be the ultimate source of protection and strength for our lives. We must make the choice. We must choose God and seek His refuge in all we do.

As we explore taking refuge through this blog, the focus will be on how we can take refuge in God. Sometimes the source of inspiration will be examples from daily life. Sometimes it will be from examining scriptures such as the ones above. Sometimes the message will just be putting into words the feelings and emotions that are stirred deep inside me. But, regardless of the source of inspiration, I pray that God will speak to your heart as He has to mine about the importance of putting Him first in all that you do and say.