Does knowing what we believe and why matter?

I believe that we knowing what you believe and why is one of the most important aspects of a christian's life. 

      We must know what we believe, for without it we are anchor less and rudderless in life. We must know why we believe, or it will not stand when it is called into question. And it will be called into question (unless you live in a jar). We live in a world that is simultaneously yearning for and at war with God. Especially in America, we push God away with one hand and reach out for something to fill the void that we create by rejecting him with the other. Everyday what I believe is challenged, my values are challenged. It is impossible to live amongst unbelievers and not have to defend your faith, even if it's just in your own mind. When I was younger I knew what I believed, but I did not fully know why. This gave me the appearance of being saved, but without a solid understanding of God's heart for me. This led to me falling away from the Lord for a season. Now I know why, and this why has caused me to cling to God, even when I cannot see how a particular trial or season is going to turn out. It has kept em from turning away when I am hurt or offended by the world, the church, or even by other Christians. 

   "I believe in God the Father almighty. maker of heaven and earth and in Jesus Christ his only son our Lord. Who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, dead, and buried. He descended into hell; the third day he rose again from the dead. He ascended into heaven, and sits at the right hand of God the Father almighty, from thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead."- The Apostle's Creed (partial)

I cannot find a better way to express what I believe about God that the apostles creed. As to why I believe this;

• I see undeniable evidence in nature as to the authorship of our world. I believe that it takes more faith to believe that our world and everything in it was a cosmic accident.
• I have tasted and seen that God is good. As I have learned to walk with Him, I have seen His blessing and favor on my life in giving me my wife, and our children. We have never gone without, even when money was very tight.
• I have personally witnessed God's power in changing my heart. I was a very selfish individual by nature, and over the years the Lord has caused me to care, not just about friends, but about the world around me. I am still a work in progress, but I would never have become the father and husband that I am today without the redemptive work of Christ.

I don't believe that you have to try to see God, I believe that you have to try to not see Him.