It means we do not want to have a , "once saved always saved mentality". However, we should have assurance that He who begins a good work will complete it in us. God also does not want outward compliance but inward rebellion towards Him. Each one has to do their own part to develop the character of God . It can not be earned. It is a gift. God knows our hearts and he is greater than them. For who among men knows the thoughts of man except his own spirit within him? So too, no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God. What we have received is not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, so that we may understand what God has freely given us. We are given the indwelling of God's Spirit. He lets his mind be in us while we are in the human form. If we are faithful to him , he will be faithful to us. God does not desire to cut people off from his lifesource. He helps people return to Him.