1613) How important is it for you to have a peaceful environment around you? On a scale of 1-10, I’d put it at a 10. I do not enjoy living among strife and conflict, and yet, this can be way out of balance if I care too much about pleasing people.

For example, after I signed with a publisher, a good friend of mine gave me some good advice. He said, “It’s none of your business what people think of your creation (in my case, my writing).” His point was that I create the art and not overly concern myself with what my readers’ opinions are.

Yes, I need to consider what a publisher, agent or editor’s opinions and directions are, but, other than that, I should not be overly concerned or controlled by the critiques of others. 

Galatians 1:10 admonishes us to not seek the approval of man but to focus on God’s approval. Will these two groups align at times? I hope so, but I need not be overly concerned with others’ opinions? When I am, I move into the seat of trying to please people.

We must follow Jesus’ example. He did not focus on what others thought of him, even when he knew they were plotting to kill him. Instead, he devoted his time to his mission on this earth. This is the example I want to model my life on.

Whom do we want to please?