“Grace is not opposed to effort but to earning.” – Dallas Willard.

I’d like to add that if there is no effort (to be good and do good), then grace was never applied. One of the signs of our receiving grace (or saved) is that we will make efforts to be in character who we are in position.

At the time of belief in Christ, our position instantly changed from that of a lost sinner to a son. However, our character will take a lifetime of development to catch up to our position as sons of God. Imagine if we had been adopted by the king of England and had been invited to live in his palace. Although, technically we are princes and princesses, we do not yet know the decorum nor possess the character to carry on as kings and queens. So, in gratitude, we make every effort to become what we already are.

That is the Christian life. It is by no means automatic. It take effort on our part. It is consciously looking to Jesus daily, admiring Him, communing with Him and making efforts to become like Him.

“I want you to insist on these things, so that those who have believed in God may be careful to devote themselves to good works.” Titus 3:8 

To earn God’s love? No. But because we have already been loved.