Basic training came with a basic manual, a little grey book known as our training bible. We were to study it daily, ready at a moment's notice to be asked a question asst random from its pages. Woe to him who could not answer correctly the TI's question from that book.
The book wasn't just facts and ideas to memorize and catalog, it contained standards of conduct based on the UCMJ (Uniform Code of Military Justice) as well as the how to, what to, when to of military existence. We were not just to learn the precepts and principles of the book, we were to as one live by them. Understanding why was a plus but not particularly required.
The words were intended to make one a better prepared airman to carry out the mission, understanding the why of each rule was simply not as important as embracing the rule. We were to live by the book because it's words would instill military bearing and knowledge, which would guide us in our development as airmen capable of carrying out the mission.
The Bible is similar in that it is given for us to learn and live by: "They are not just idle words for you---they are your life" (Deut 32:47). And, the rules themselves are not the point, it is the change they bring to our lives, that we might be "like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind...having the mind of Christ" (Phil2:2&5).
I have devoted most of my adult life to understanding the Bible and understanding why is always intriguing but not particularly necessary. I trust that God's reasons are right and good. Whether I ever fully understand them has no bearing on whether I should live by them. As Peter affirmed when asked if he too would turn away fro pm the Lord, "Lord, to,whom else,shall we go? You have the words of eternal life" (Jn 6:68). How else can we live but by the Book? Jus' Ask'n.
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