That is a fine testament to God's work in any of us, Keith... I think that churches have promoted "feel good religion" to hopefully bring people into the fold...
My reading suggests that while the formula is quite simply to "believe" there is considerable hard work we're to do as we grow in Christ... if it were all that easy, wouldn't all do it?
Not to discourage anyone, but when I say "hard work" I am speaking of mostly changing one's behavior, attitude and taking captive our own sinful thoughts...
I once was exposed to the idea that as we grow closer to God, Satan chooses to ramp up his attention to us as he's fearful he's loosing us...so, that when things are the most challenging, is when we can smile and know we must be getting closer to God as that is when Satan, will ramp up his challenges