For they exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever.
For the longest time, I thought of this purely in terms of pantheists or people worshipping man-made idols. I now realize that whenever a desire for some possession or activity overtakes me, I am serving the creature rather than the Creator (Colossians 3:5). This equates me with the Israelities worshipping a golden calf. How many people worship jobs, job security, money, monetary security, cars, friendships, spouses, movie stars, the Hollywood lifestyle, fame, music (playing or writing or consuming), musical equipment, computers, video games, talents and abilities, knowledge, "having enough," or being comfortable? I've cheated on God with most of these! Tear these things away, Lord, that I may have eyes only for you!
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I got a flash the other day at just how foolish and useless it is to lack trust in God. Too often I worry about things working out, whether it be monetary things, transportation, job situations, school, etc. If I am truly honest, I cannot help but admit how small and helpless a being I am: I have no control over other people (influence at best), economic directions, or world events. Supposing a God who created the universe and all in it, it seems infinitely more unwise to try and trust in myself or another person or group of people, who themselves have just as much control as me. And the people who have control (such as world leaders) are even less trustworthy than ordinary men in positions of no power, which may be the most frightening part yet. Let this no longer be a flash of insight, but a disposition!