Honestly I know that this is a VERY old post, but I think I can shed some light here. Religion in my opinion is a form of mythology in its attempt to explain the unknown by attributing it to things that are known. Dr. Joseph Campbell's interview series with Bill Moyers The Power of Myth, is a great way to explain the allusions to universality in thinking when talking about religious beliefs and their roots in mythology.
At the end of the day, it's down to what you believe is the most influential force in your life. For me, I believe in the Christian God and I also believe in the energy of that deity that is all around us and breeds life, grows it, and surrounds us all, to others it may be Allah, Buddha, or any variety of gods in the Hindu religion.
In terms of religion being used as a form of control over humanity is a very narrow minded approach to man's attempt to explain the unknown. There is a higher power, I have no proof of whether it exists or doesn't exist but I choose to put my faith in my religion, as all Masons do.