I would like to add that we must remember that there is no such thing as coincidence in this universe.

Everything, right form the beginning is based on a series of cause and effect.
Some might say," ok since everything is cause and effect then how do you explain the creation of the universe if it wasn't the cause of god?"

I would then ask, 'How would you explain the creation of god?'

Why can't we accept that the universe is natural, and that we are in fact part of it. Energy is the source of everything(as far as we know today). It is what this universe is built upon and continues to operate by. The soul is energy, in transforms into form and out of form. As we know, energy cannot be created or destroy, only transformed.

This is how I view life, as an everlasting cycle.

Back in days when religion was formed, its purpose was to promote harmony and a peaceful living. These are what the prophets and gurus of the olden times preached. Religion itself is just a bunch of moral stories put together. However much like any other story told time and time again, the context changes each time. The stories often adapt to local culture in order for the people to better affiliate themselves with it.

Worst, stories get manipulated for personal gains such as control and influence. This is when religion started becoming a political tool, much of what it is today.
(sorry to be out of topic but i just had to state my point of view)

To believe in free will or determinism is a rather personal choice. I strongly believe in Free Will and that no one can have control of who or what you become, other than YOU yourself.

We are the architects of our lives.
Bob Proctor (The Secret)

Speaking of the film 'The Secret', I strongly urge you to watch it or read the book. It best describes how every event that occurs around us is in fact triggered by an action, in this case thought. It elaborates on the law of attraction, the power of the mind and thought manifestation. Again, this relates to the fundamental laws of the universe, action-reaction.