We are saved by grace, through faith, not by our works. There is nothing you can do to save yourself from your sin. However, once you are saved, God expects you to live like someone who has been made right with God. In fact, Scripture indicates that the proof we have been born again ought to be seen in the righteousness of our lives (1 John 5:2-4).
Being saved by grace does not exempt us from living holy lives. It ought to compel us to live for Christ with abandon. Christians ought not to live carelessly or casually. Every area of our life ought to be wholly surrendered to God.
The scribes and Pharisees of Jesus’ day were fanatical about following God’s commandments. They went to ridiculous lengths at times, to ensure they were following Scripture’s teachings. Of course they missed Christ, and so their religious behavior was for not. But Jesus, rather than condemning their zeal, commanded His disciples to seek to live holy lives with even more fervency.
Would fervency for righteousness describe your life? Does a desire for holy living pervade everything you do? How serious are you about honoring God in every part of your life? How pleasing is your life, currently, to God?