Living a simple life is far greater than living a life full of extravagance. A simpler life can lead to a life of fulfillment and happiness, like my family's, or to a life of greed and envy, like Pahóm's. Growing up in a small rural area, excess possessions are rare. No matter how much money my parents made, we were always happy because we had each other. I grew up in a strong Christian home, which greatly influenced my views on Tolstoy's short story. The Bible repeatedly refers to greed and a materialistic orientation. In Exodus chapter 20, Moses was given the Ten Commandments so that the people could live lives with a closer relationship with God. The second commandment says, “You shall not make for yourself an idol in the form of anything in heaven above, nor on the earth beneath, nor in the waters beneath” (The Teen Study Bible: New International Version 92-93). God gave this law to Moses so that the people would keep God at the center of their concerns. When Christ is at the center of our life, the way we live our lives is oriented upward to please God, rather than inward to please ourselves. The tenth commandment instructs followers of Christ not to covet the possessions of others. When we live a fulfilled Christian life, God will provide for every circumstance, so there is no need to envy others. Job illustrates a