It was the most exclusive club in the world. The list of members included the celebrated names of Rockefeller, J.P. Morgan, Vanderbilt, Macy and Goodyear.

In 1886 Jekyll Island, off the coast of Georgia, became the private playground where the rich came to swim, hunt and relax in their “cottages.” Only, these cottages had 15 to 25 rooms.

Today, most visitors to Jekyll Island hardly notice the two stone lions standing before the ruins of the once lavish house of Edwin Gould. One day, while hunting on the island, Mr. Gould's son was killed in an accident. In his grief he left and never returned.

What better illustration than two stone lions standing guard over a ruined, ghostly estate, to illustrate Christ’s saying that “one’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses” (Luke 12:15).

When you feel envious of others, take time to be thankful for what God has given you. This simple truth can change our lives.