Scripture is clear that grace alone saves.
Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them." -- Ephesians 2:8-10"For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:
A grace that can be denied is no grace; it's merely friendly persuasion.
What's the point if nothing I do matters?
Scripture is clear that grace alone saves.
I agree.
A grace that can be denied is no grace; it's merely friendly persuasion.
A grace is a gift. Like any gift, it can be refused or rejected. If it cannot be rejected, it is not a gift. Paul makes that clear in 2 Cor 6:1.
If I may help. Catholics don't believe that we earn our way to salvation. Our cooperation with God's graces do not earn us anything. Yet, the Scriptures speak of rewards that God will grant us. He has commanded us to follow His teachings (which we cannot rightly do without His graces). He doesn't OWE us anything. Yet, because He is righteous, we have confidence that He WILL reward those who persevere. Again, we cannot do any of this alone. Thus, we are with Paul when he says "we cannot boast". Nothing I give to God is mine ALONE. It is my internal disposition of love, moved by God, that makes a particular action pleasing to God. God is pleased to "crown the gifts that He has given".
Thus, nothing I do ALONE is meaningful towards salvation. Remember, Christ can and does abide in us. He is not just visiting, but sanctifying us, working to convert us. An action in cooperation and moved by God, done in faith and love IS worthy of God's pleasing eye. Being that He is righteous, He will reward our puny response.
Regards