three symbolic crosses in darkness as the sun rises behind them

Daily Devotional • Ephesians 1:4-5 • Chosen and Deeply Loved

Ephesians 1:4–5 reminds us that our identity begins with God’s love. Before we achieved anything, proved ourselves, or had everything figured out, God chose us and called us His own. In a world that constantly pressures us to earn worth and belonging, this Scripture anchors our hearts in the unchanging truth that we are deeply loved and fully accepted by Him.

He chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love he predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will.

- Ephesians 1:4-5

There are so many hoops we have to jump through in order to be accepted by worldly standards.

We have to pass tests, fill out applications, prove our qualifications for certain jobs, minimize our weaknesses as best we can, and camouflage our flaws.

Thank goodness we are already accepted completely by God!

There is no flaw or failure that the blood of Jesus doesn’t redeem. He has stepped in our place on our behalf and pleaded for our acceptance and freedom!

Because of what Jesus did for us, we don’t have to strive to be perfect because we are already perfect in Him.

When God looks at you, He sees you just as He sees Jesus!

Do you struggle feeling accepted?

Know today that the Lord longs for you to have a revelation of His overwhelming love for you. He wholly accepts you right now as you are. He created you exactly as He wanted you to be. Every sin of your past, present and future has already been paid for! You are clothed with His robe of righteousness and glowing with the love-light of approval and adoration.

All you have to do is say, “yes!” to this free invitation.

Prayer: Lord, thank you for accepting and loving me unconditionally! Thank you, Jesus, for what you did for me on the cross, taking my place. Even when the world rejects me, I know I am always accepted and welcomed into the heavenly family of my Father!

With Love,
Sarah Sherstad


It’s easy to let insecurity, comparison, or pressure shape the way we see ourselves. But today’s devotional invites you to return to what God says is true about you. As you journal, take time to reflect on your identity not through the lens of performance or approval, but through the steady love of a Father who has already chosen you.

Journal & Reflect

  • What messages or pressures have been influencing how I view myself lately?
  • How does knowing I am chosen and loved by God change my perspective?
  • Where am I seeking validation outside of my identity in Christ? 

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Ephesians 1:4–5 mean?

Ephesians 1:4–5 teaches that God chose and loved us before the foundation of the world. Through His grace, believers are adopted into His family and given a secure identity in Christ.

Why is identity in Christ important?

When our identity is rooted in God’s love instead of achievements, appearance, or approval from others, we experience greater peace, confidence, and spiritual freedom.

How can journaling strengthen my understanding of God’s love?

Journaling creates intentional space to reflect on Scripture, process emotions honestly, and reinforce the truths God speaks about your worth and identity. 

Prayer 

Lord, thank You for loving me before I ever had to prove myself. Help me rest in the truth that my identity is secure in You. When comparison, insecurity, or pressure try to distract me, remind me that I am chosen, accepted, and deeply loved by You. Teach me to walk confidently in the purpose and grace You have already spoken over my life. Amen.

Message from Kara

Friend, I think so many women quietly carry the pressure to constantly prove their worth — to be more, do more, or somehow measure up. But Ephesians 1:4–5 reminds us that God’s love was never something we had to earn. You were chosen long before you ever felt confident, capable, or “enough.” My prayer is that today’s devotional helps you breathe a little deeper and rest more fully in the truth that you are already deeply loved by Him. With love, Kara 🤍

Applying this to your Daily Routine

Take time to reflect, pray, and process what God is teaching you through every season. Our Personalized Prayer Journal was designed to help you grow deeper in faith—one day at a time–turning intention into habit. Many people use journals to revisit verses like these and reflect throughout the week.

👉 Explore Personalized Scripture Products at www.papersunday.com

Today's devotional pairs beautifully with the Painted Blooms Personalized Scripture Journal

Custom floral planner with painted blooms design and personalized name on flexible soft cover

If you’re still working through questions of who you are, these devotionals can guide you:

Daily Devotional • John 14:6 • The Only Way, The Only Truth, The Only Life

Daily Devotional • 1 Peter 1:1b • Chosen & Set Apart

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