Formerbrother, I went through this same question. All I can do is answer for myself. I have found that finding truth is a process, not of finding truth, but of eliminating things that aren't true and continuing to analyse going forward. If people and churches are honest, they will admit the same limitations. The idea of finding the final absolute truth and spiking the ball with celebration is a never ending squirrel cage. If an almighty god (no capitals deserved) were the loving father the bible claims, he is a poor communicator. He speaks through a confusing book? Really? He speaks through prophets? Yeah right!!! If he ever cares to show up, I'm all ears. Until then, I will try to work within the community, attempting to be kind, helpful, based on what is historically useful and scientifically proven.
I have the right to expect further proof from god. If he demands fear, he can get it I guess. But, the claim is that he is a loving father. If so and he wants my love (not fear) then he has to explain himself. If my statement above deserves only a plague or a bolt of lightning as punishment, then we are back to fear, right? But god is love, right? Then show up!!