Psalm 62:11-12 (NKJV)
God has spoken once, Twice I have heard this: That power belongs to God. Also to You, O Lord, belongs mercy; For You render to each one according to his work.
We live in a power hungry world. God should only have to say it once, but power is from God and mercy is from God too. No need to trust in anything else; this is the only power and mercy worth having. I'm am so glad that God has chosen to use His power to exercise mercy.
We have been taught to know that salvation does not come as a reward for our works. Salvation is not earned; it is a gift we simply receive by faith. However, scripture clearly teaches that there is a reward which will be "according to our works." The reward I hope for is from the mouth of my Savior saying "Well done, good and faithful servant."
Matthew 16:27 (NKJV)
For the Son of Man will come in the glory of His Father with His angels, and then He will reward each according to his works.