How can Christians ensure their good works are pleasing to God?

To ensure that one’s good works are pleasing to God, they must arise from a heart transformed by grace and be directed towards glorifying God, rather than seeking self-praise. As mentioned in Matthew 6:1-4, Jesus admonishes against performing acts of righteousness merely for others to see. Instead, motives rooted in love, stemming from a clean heart and sincere faith—as outlined in 1 Timothy 1:5—are key indicators of pleasing works. Moreover, abiding in Christ allows believers to bear fruit that reflects the character of Christ himself, as noted in John 15:5, positioning good works as natural outcomes of a vibrant relationship with Christ. Thus, true intent and reliance upon Christ's empowerment are crucial in ensuring that our good works align with God's standards.