Grace, the foundational pillar of our salvation! But how do we define it or better yet how does our definition of grace define us?
Each of us wrestles with our justification before God. We may say that we don't but by our actions, it is evident that we do. The Apostle Paul stated to the Galatians; you foolish Galatians who has bewitched you, what you started out in the spirit are you now trying to perfect in the flesh? Throughout the book of Romans, we see the conversation discussing the battle between works and grace, the flesh and the Spirit.
Why does God's word spend so much time with this topic? Because God knows that it is in our human nature to find acceptance through our own efforts. Sometimes we cross that line without even knowing we have crossed it.
Faith and grace cannot be separated from each other. So, when God's word says without faith it is impossible to please God, He is also saying without grace it is impossible to please Him. We are saved by grace through faith period!