beginner question armor

[carlec]

Hi everyone--old time gamer, new KBtL player--like the look so dove in. After just starting, I have several questions, but I thought it best to split them into a few different emails.

What is the point of armor or things for my character if my character never actually goes into battle? I chose a Paladin, got the sword and now some other things for his body. I can't figure out what the point is? One thing I put on helped my mana but took away intelligence. If I'm never in battle, why does it matter?

This applies to what to purchase as well--why spend money on armor, etc...upgrades?