In The Meaning and End of Religion W. C. Smith writes that the noun religion is at the end of its expiry date. He argues that instead of an abstract religion it is more meaningfull to speak of discursive tradition and personal faith. There is something to say for this dialectical analysis.
Firstly it appeals to secular wisdom which is somestimes construed as “everything you give attention grows.” When considered in extremo this advice might not particularly make for a tranquil mind however. For more on this topic expect a sequel to this study focussing on creativity and the human mind deo volente.
But the nominal “personal faith” does appeal to the importance of Belief in the life of human beings. This makes his theory muleable both to the secular and the sacred mind.