How do we know salvation is not based on our works?

The foundational truth of salvation in the Reformed tradition is that it is not by works but by grace alone through faith. Romans 7 illustrates this struggle, acknowledging that although we desire to do good, our sinful nature prevails. Galatians 3:10-13 teaches that relying on the law for justification leads to a curse because no one can perfectly adhere to it. Instead, Christ has redeemed us from this curse through His sacrifice. The acknowledgment that we cannot achieve sinlessness or earn salvation by our deeds is integral; our hope instead rests solely on the redemptive work of Christ, who fulfilled the law on our behalf and met the requirement of absolute righteousness.