I grew up super religious, somewhat similar to Mormons, which surprised me when I compared notes with my ex-Mormon friend.
The reason I was surprised was that I was taught that LDS was a cult. Now, with the benefit of time and perspective, I see the whole thing from a different angle.
First, I see all religions as problematic (rules and control vs. Love and freedom, prejudice vs. acceptance, focus on Us vs. Them, persecution complex, etc.). Second, I can see the big-picture benefits religion has brought, like education, order, community, connection, and structure. Especially the Mormons, who I admire for their sense of community, work ethic, family priorities, genealogy research, language learning skills, and funeral potatoes, lol. I wish the whole country could be looked after the way people in wards are looked after.
I haven't left God behind; but I have left church behind, at least until I find one that's not covering up abuse or putting the flag on an equal footing with God.