Romans 4:4, HCSBNow to the one who works, pay is not considered as a gift, but as something owed.
When we misunderstand what the Bible says about grace and works, we start at the wrong place in our efforts to live a righteous life. If we obey the commands of Scripture because we believe we can force God's hand and somehow place him in our debt--as if He owes us anything--we are setting ourselves up for ruin.