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

Ephesians 2:8-9 clearly states that we are saved by grace through faith, and this is not of ourselves; it is the gift of God. Our salvation is not based on works, lest anyone should boast. This reflects the Reformed understanding that all blessings, including salvation, are given freely by God through the merits of Christ's redemptive work and are not contingent upon our efforts or actions. The testimony of Scripture consistently reinforces that our justification is by faith alone, leading to a life of obedience as a response to this salvation, rather than as a means to earn it.