Mercy Before Good Works
Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour; That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.
Titus 3:5-7 KJV
Titus 3:5 does not leave room for the idea that enough good behavior can save us. God saves according to His mercy, not by works of righteousness we have done. The Holy Ghost gives new life through Christ's saving work.
That does not make obedience unimportant. Read on in the chapter, and you will find believers called to good works. The order matters. Mercy provides salvation; good works belong to the life that follows.
You cannot trade helpful chores, church attendance, or a good report for forgiveness. Trust Jesus Christ, who died for our sins and rose again. Then serve with gratitude. A thankful heart has less reason to boast about being better than someone else.
Keep the passage in context
Paul grounds salvation in God's mercy, regeneration by the Holy Ghost, and justification by grace through Jesus Christ. Righteous works cannot cause salvation. The surrounding chapter then calls believers to useful good works.
Read further: Titus 3 in the King James Bible.