How could 'God' do this?

Non-believer asking a question about God. If God created us and loved us, how could he treat us so horribly? How could he place such strict rules upon us and ruin the life and spirit he's given us? He's given us a mind with curiousity but has forbade up to think. He's given us the power to create yet once again forbade us to act upon it. If a person such as God were to be in charge of America we would try and fight to get rid of him. This sounds like an abusive parent or spouse. He keeps knocking up down and picking us up, only to knock up down again. How could you follow such a vindictive leader who has given so much power but allowed you no reign over it? How could you believe he will give you everlasting life while he is refusing to allow you to live the one he's given you? Please no commentary about believeing is the only way. I want to see legitimate attempts to answer this question without criticising me for being a non-believer and asking there questions.