Personally, I don't find it particularly hard to believe that a rabbi believes in G-d. However, he seemed to be amazed that anyone believes in G-d. What's fascinating is that if you don't ask the question directly, it's possible to demonstrate to them that they do believe in G-d. They are influenced by the society, the educational system and their friends to think that they don't believe in G-d. He doesn't need our prayers or our praises.
Most people are able to appreciate the concept and accept it.
All good discussions must start with a definition or one ends up going in circles. Belief is a point on a continuum of knowledge from no knowledge to absolute knowledge. The more evidence that you have, the stronger the belief. The Torah concept of G-d is that of Creator, Sustainer and Supervisor of the universe and all that is within it. People do not like restrictions in their lives.