Atheists: Why do you need proof?

I'm a christian (17 yrs old so need to get into heated arguments im simply asking to get your insight) and tonight i was wondering why atheists need such an extensive amount of proof of God. I know that as humans we at one point will experience a void in ourselves..a hopelessness that amounts us to desperation no matter how much we are loved. its human nature to be loved, we all want it whether we know it or unconsciously desire it. so i was thinking if maybe this "void" was put for a reason so someone of a higher power can fulfill it. reading most of the bible i have seen what i feel and have come to realize that God is a loving God. so why not take a leap of faith? why not open the pages and at least try to believe? what can you possibly lose? if it's your pride getting in the way then maybe do it in private..? it just saddens me to think that we simply live and die. there must be a purpose. we aren't flesh and bone..we are given divine qualities for that is what seperates us from machines, computers, animals. there must be a reason because if we do just die.. why have morals? why live a virtuous life? ive already made up my mind and chosen. Why the need of evidence and tangible proof