It seems so much of religion is a recipe of behavior in which you can change God from opposition to blessing. It seems that we are always on the prowl for a way that we can push God's buttons and obligate Him to bless us. Its almost like God is some kind of computer in the sky and religion gives us the access codes. Maybe if I am humble enough, or sinless enough or generous enough, then God will have no choice but to bless me. But this is a dangerous road, because it leads away from God. I say that because God has unconditional love, and seeking to EARN His love pushes away the understanding of it.

I looked for God in self-righteous successful behavior, but I never found Him. However, in the burned-out mess of failure and despair, I found that He loved me in defeat and unrighteousness, and depletion. I know the love that God has for those that would spit on His Son, the Lord Jesus ... but I only know that because I found love in His eyes while I was cursing Him and raising my fist to heaven and anger and rebellion.

I'm no better then Peter, who would loose faith and drown, though he walked upon the water.
I'm have no boast over David, who murdered the innocent to have what he desired.

The Lord Jesus bled and died and turned my black-as-coal heart into white-as-snow, and not one of us ever deserved that, nor have any of us the means by which to repay it. We can only receive it with thanksgiving, as helpless weaklings that are forgiven of much.