That was a surprisingly mature and healthy understanding (and action), u/changeagent -- I doubt I would have come to the realization you did at that age.

I believe that God's voice in our lives is the truth of our real selves.

Those open to hearing that voice have the moral compass that helps protect us from foolish or evil choices. I've never been one to believe in the (external) power of prayer, but I do believe this: prayer gives us practice in listening for and to the voice of God, which means listening to our real, healthy selves. We are beings made IN the image of God, after all. That doesn't mean we LOOK like Him, but rather that our souls are in harmony with His.

I've been trying to improve that harmony my whole life. I suspect you were way ahead of me, and of most people for that matter.