Religion provides a moral compass and an emotional refuge.  It's a central part of normalizing our society.

When we use some of the lessons and promises of religion to guide our lives, we become confused.  The infinite joy that will follow this life, and the other beliefs that underpin many religions, are poor standards to measure and improve this messy, painful existence.

It's better to keep some of the assumptions of religion on the religious side of your thinking, and improve life using standards intended to result in the best life you can lead.