Covetousness is Idolatry

Colossians 3:5
Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry:

It is interesting that "covetousness" is equated to idolatry.
Why is that so?
If you think about it - covetousness is basically greed. The inordinate desire for material objects. It could be something as simple as a certain collectible right up to desiring fame and fortune to the point that they get in the way of us serving God. And that is the underlying concept behind idolatry - putting something above God.
It hit the rich young man who loved his riches more (May 19:22). It hit the chief rulers who loved the praise of men more (Jhn 12:42,43).  It hit Hymenaeus and Alexander who loved their past lives more (1 Ti 1:20). Covetousness can hit everyone and anyone and is often closer than we think.
What is the solution? Paul already preempted this predicament and gave the solution in the opening verses - recognising where our true affections lie and setting our sights upon them.
Easier said than done. But it begins with taking baby steps to move ourselves away from the world and closer to God. It begins by seeking every opportunity to be with God's people, by resolving to put effort into serving God is whatever capacity we are able.
And we become so focused on the Lord's work and people, where would we find time and space to covet worldly things?
It's not easy but neither is it impossible! And very often it is not that we are unable but unwilling. The most common excuse we give ourselves is - oh I need to work hard now so that I can be in a better position to serve God. Guess what? The time for service waits for no one. Besides what makes us so sure about tomorrow? (Jam 4:14)
Therefore just as NOW is the time of salvation, NOW
 is the time of service! Don't delay and later regret when we face the final call.