RELIGIOUS COLUMN: Beware of the 'Pied Piper' of technology

Envy is a feeling of discontent, resentment and begrudging, aroused by someone else's possessions, qualities or luck. It's simply desiring the resources and opportunities someone else has so that we can purchase and create the life we fantasize about. We may not want a person's specific home, vehicles, talents or spouse, but we may want their finances and charisma so we can have a similar life. James chapter 3 and verses 14-16 allow us to see how this is a very serious spiritual problem. 'But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. Such 'wisdom' does not come down from heaven but is earthly, sensual, demonic. For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work.' We consider an envious person to be a materialistic and nosy busybody, trying to keep up with the Joneses. When we are walking or driving in a neighborhood, we check out every house to judge its landscaping and the color coordination of its paint, roof, and brick. At a stoplight, we look around and notice what people are driving, and when we are in a mall or a restaurant, we notice what people are wearing. Likewise, the internet, as a sneaky Pied Piper, provides the bait for the inquisitive. Let's face it, the real reason social media is so addictive is that the average person is not only super curious, but also easily influenced.