Luke 18:10, Roman 4:1-4, Ephesians 2:8-9
Now if Abraham was to be justified by his good works and not by the mercies of God, he would had been like the Pharisee who thought because of his good deeds was righteous but ended up unjustified for delighting in his good works.
When life is led this way, God is unallowed to take credit for any exploits. Because when we delight in self effort, faith in Christ which pleases God, is made void and the promise worthless. So the Bible says if we have anything to boast it is before man. Being good before man is necessary but faith in Christ wins us God the Father's heart. Hallelujah!
Brethren, it's better to focus on Christ and his finished work. In that manner we please God, because Christ who is the only one that pleases God, becomes the object of our faith. By this faithful act God declares us right with himself. Shalom!