Is religion just a state of mind?

Answer

There is an old saying, "There are no athiests in a foxhole." That means that once we start facing our own mortality, most of us will acknowledge the presence of a creator. Specific religious beliefs may not be all that significant, but acknowledging the presence of a creator seems universal when people face their own mortality.


ANSWER:
Religion is a set of rules to be followed in order to be right with God. Religion is fear based and results in more fear.
Faith is based upon relationship with God and an unshakable knowledge that you are loved, protected, valued and will never be rejected or abandoned. Faith is love based and results in more love.
Any rules, law or requirement added to the pure and unconditional love God offers us will kill the flow and the joy of that love and faith will be impossible. Faith resides in the heart.