What does the Bible say about our contribution to salvation?

Scriptures like Ephesians 2:8-9 state that by grace we are saved through faith, and this is not of ourselves; it is the gift of God. Additionally, Romans 9:16 reiterates that salvation is not of him who wills, nor of him who runs, but of God who shows mercy. Understanding that our flesh profits nothing emphasizes that all aspects of salvation—including election, redemption, and preservation—are solely the result of God's sovereign will and work in Christ. This perspective counters any notion of human merit or contribution in our salvation.