It seems ludicrous that our Creator, Savior, and Sustainer should feel the need to ask or command His creatures to love Him. You would think that loving the One who gives and sustains our life would be our natural response. Yet we are an ungrateful, self-centered species. We gladly receive every heavenly gift but then ignore the Giver. We cry out to God when we face a need or problem but then summarily forget Him once the crisis is past.
There are many forms of religion that place various demands on its worshipers. Even in the church, people are often taught that God loves them based on their performance. Some track their sins versus their good deeds, hoping God will be pleased with their piety. But God has been clear about what matters most. It is our devotion. There is no substitute for loving God.
Unfortunately, many professing Christians could readily admit to fearing God, or serving God, or believing in God. But they would be hard-pressed to acknowledge that they truly love Him. Leaders often find it easier to serve God than to love Him. Yet that is what He desires from us most. What is it about your life that clearly reveals your love for God?