[metmom]

Indeed, works done for compensation do not save. Works of self-denial done for the love of God and the neighbor save. See the Mary Magdalene episode that you yourself quoted.

Chapter and verse?

How many works? How do you know you did them with the right motive? That you did the right ones? That you've done enough?

Can you be sure that your motive is pure and that underlying your works isn't the thought that the works might be those that will get you saved, thus immediately negating them by them becoming works done for compensation (that compensation being heaven or a shorter term in purgatory)?

[annalex]

Annalex: Works of self-denial done for the love of God and the neighbor save

Chapter and verse?

Matthew 5-7 and Matthew 25 second half. also see a readar's digest version in Romans 2:6-10, John 5:29. Regarding Mary Magdalen, the reference was to the episode in John 12, and indeed it probably was another Mary and not Mary Magdalen

How many works? How do you know you did them with the right motive? That you did the right ones? That you've done enough?

You have done enough when you die and go to heaven. There is no quota to fill. One must examine his conscience for the motive, and at times indeed there is room for doubt; Christ, however, knows your soul and knows your motivation. It is important to go about your day prayerfully, and then whatever it is you do becomes sanctifying work. It is not complicated, if you have the simple faith of a child (Mt 18:4). Also, study the lives of the saints. They, somehow managed to get "done enough". So study what they did and imitate them.