How can one be a committed believer, fearing God and performing prayer, while finding oneself far from God in one's actions?

A Muslim must only do what Allah has permitted and should hold themselves accountable, for the intelligent person is one who holds themselves accountable and works for what comes after death. It is not right for a person to say they fear Allah yet do what He has forbidden, for if that were the case, they would not expose themselves to Allah's wrath. One must constantly be mindful of Allah's watchful eye over His servant at all times, and of the angels recording every word and deed. Therefore, a Muslim must hasten to repent before it is too late, for death knows no age and Hellfire is wide enough for everyone.