Everyone needs to live by some sort of rules and I'm someone who depends on rules set by God. When I'm struggling with my thoughts, if I'm in distress or need relief I find that in God's message. I believe that I can get an answer and even if the shit hits the fan hard, I can find peace. I'm no idiot, I've got a biochemistry degree and a PhD and while my career is all about evidence I believe with all my heart that God exists.
We can debate the complexities of religion but the connection to God is individual. People who don't believe in God will follow rules or a philosophy, that might be money or freedom or whatever but as long as they can get through their struggles they won't care. For myself, God can solve everything even in times of grief and sorrow I find peace.