I know people usually don't like when a post is just a quote, but this one really sums up my views on religion. It is by the master, George Carlin. Enjoy.
QUOTE
But folks, I have to tell you, in the bullshit department a businessman can't hold a candle to a clergyman. Because when it comes to comes to bullshit, big-time, major league bullshit, you have to stand in awe--in awe!!--of the all-time champion of false promises and exaggerated claims: RELIGION. No contest.
Religion--easily--has the Greatest Bullshit Story Ever Told! Think about it: religion has actually convinced people--many of them adults--that there's an invisible man who lives in the sky and watches everything you do, every minute of every day. And who has a special list of ten things he does not want you to do.
And if you do any of these ten things, he has a special place, full of fire and smoke and burning and torture and anguish, where he will send you to remain and suffer and burn and choke and scream and cry, forever and ever, till the end of time. But he loves you!
He loves you, and he needs money! He always needs money. he's all-powerful, all-perfect, all-knowing, and all-wise, but somehow... he just can't handle money. Religion takes in billions of dollars, pays no taxes, and somehow always needs a little more. now, you talk about a good bullshit story. Holy shit!"

Anyways, since you mention history books, I assume you know a lot about our history correct? Hey, if you read history, you'll realize that "God" is one of the leading causes of death...has been for thousands of years. Hindus, Muslims, Christians, Jews, all taking turns killing each other because God told them it was a good idea.
JClore, you can continue and keep believing in this so call "God" and keep praying to "God". If I'm going to pray to anything, it'll be the Sun. Unlike "God", I can see the Sun. It's there for me every day. And the things it brings me are quite apparent all the time: heat, light, food, a lovely day. There's no mystery, no one asks for money, I don't have to dress up, and there's no bullshit.
I'm tired of "debating" with a 12 year old. Steven or Nate finish it off.