You responded: That's the way it has been since the fall.
For the fallen, Harley, not for those who place their trust in God. Clearly, God has justified the ungodly - even you, if you repent and accept Christ. Your theology ignores God's Word.
"And to one who does not work but trusts him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is reckoned as righteousness". Romans 4:5
Regards
We may be talking about two different things. I'm talking about our works so let me see if I can clarify. Those who are fallen can do nothing to please God. God makes us into new creatures. We do good things because Christ works through us. It is His work-not ours. All good things come from the Father.
"And to one who does not work but trusts him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is reckoned as righteousness". Romans 4:5