Sadly, many in the world take refuge in perishable, temporal, and untrustworthy things. Relying on Egypt was like leaning on a broken staff that would pierce the hand of any man who leaned on it. (Isaiah 36:6) Such reliance or refuge is futile, and Prophet Isaiah describes that as a Refuge of lies. (Isaiah 28:17) Satan is the Father of lies and his refuge is death. (John 8:44)
False prophecy: When there is no peace, false prophets cry ‘Peace, Peace’ and provide superficial healing. (Jeremiah 6:14) A doctor cleans the wound by removing the damaged, corrupted, or infected cells, then does the dressing. But false prophets just dress up declaring the wounds are healed. False prophets are obsessed with the blessings, prosperity, power, prestige, and glory of this world. Those who trust and follow them are taking refuge in lies.
Imagination: Some are in the world of fantasy. They think they are serving God. Even claim to have done miracles and cast out demons. But when the Lord comes, they are shut out. Lord rejects them as workers of lawlessness and says to them: “I know you not.” (Matthew 7:21-23)
Self-deception: The Bible declares that all are sinners and have come short of the glory of God. (Romans 3:23) However, most people think, they are good, even good enough for God to accept them in Holy Heaven. They do not have the humility to confess their sins and seek the gift of forgiveness. Self-righteousness leads to self-destruction.
Rituals and not relationships: For some, rituals are important and that will save them. The rituals could be any religion, that may be solace to a person but cannot grant him assurance of salvation. Only a personal relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ by faith brings deliverance.
False Markers: Some ways seem to be right, but they reach a dead-end. (Proverbs 14:12) Sometimes wrong sign boards are installed to misdirect people. Lord Jesus Christ is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. All other ways are the refuge of lies.
Do I take refuge in the name of the Lord the Strong Tower? (Proverbs 18:10)