chris...i'm a former lawyer so yes i've read and studied the constitution and declaration of independence...i wouldn't say i understand it better than you but my base knowledge of its clauses and founders intent is probably greater than that of a non-lawyer (even if i last studied and practiced constitutional law is well removed)

the constitution was written to segregate laws based on religious beliefs to reduce the monarchial effect and eliminate the church from taking a ruling hand in this country (it was religious persecution via the government as to why this country was founded)...and this was even back then when almost everybody was a practicing christian...our founders were very smart and visionaries and understood that religion and government should not mix nor should government prefer one over another

for instance the Establishment Clause and Free Exercise clauses (1st Amendment) states as follows: "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion or prohibiting the free exercise thereof."...the establishment clause is the greatest effect meaning Congress cannot determine a national religion nor prefer one religion over another. This was interpreted by the courts and subsequent laws that Church & State are to be separate entities. This clause was extended to enforce to state & local municipalities so they could also not be based on religion nor prefer one over another.

however, there are links to christianity as "in god we trust" and "swear to tell the truth, nothing but the truth" with your hand on the new testament...but outside of swearing your truthfulness

as such there is nothing wrong with people using religion or faith to make decisions...however introducing laws based purely upon religious grounds is a violation that is rampant with this administration