Why is it important for Christians to rely on grace?

For Christians, relying on grace is paramount as it underpins both our initial salvation and our ongoing sanctification. As expressed in 2 Timothy 1:9, 'who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began.' This illustrates that our relationship with God is dependent on His grace rather than our own righteousness. Furthermore, understanding and embracing grace encourages believers to live in gratitude and empowers them to grow spiritually, knowing that their efforts do not retain their standing before God, but His grace does.