".. everyone has sinned and is far away from God's saving presence. But by the free gift of God's grace all are put right with him through Christ Jesus, who sets them free."

(Romans 3.23-24 GNB)

God's grace is his initiative that he offers to us mankind. I did not earn it - all I need is an active faith in Christ Jesus to receive and keep it.

".. we conclude that a person is put right with God only through faith, and not by doing what the Law commands. ... Does this mean that by this faith we do away with the Law? No, not at all; instead, we uphold the Law."

(Romans 3.28,31 GNB)