An intelligent designer could have indeed set the forces of evolution in motion, just as all the natural laws of physics have been established. But even if that is true, how does it inform anyone as to which religion (with their own rules about what you can drink, what you can eat, etc.) to follow? How does it imply that such a creative force (which could well have been from a sophisticated, but not divine) is still operating in our observable universe, and really gives a hoot about what we think, do, or say?
Evolution illustrates this truth about the world God placed us in: adaptation leads to survival.
The last 4,000 years has shown us the power and success of the Judeo-Christian ethic. Its commands are like established laws of physics. To wit, if you think you can get from the third floor to the sidewalk by jumping, you can, but the law of gravity ensures you pay a penalty. To wit, if we think we can indulge in immoral sexual values we can, but we pay a penalty. If we think we can indulge in envy and lust and avariciousness we can, but our moral fabric pays an ugly penalty, just like the guy who jumps in water gets wet.
From it we've taken the combined respect and responsibility ethic that has enabled free enterprise and Western Civilization. Clearly when humans adapt their behavior to Judeo-Christian teachings, they thrive. When they don't, they flounder.
To me, evolution IS intelligent design, and the bible is our Divine guide to survival.