The phrase, “love me” occurs nine times in the Bible. This first time it occurs is in the account of Jacob and his wives. In this account, Jacob is tricked into marrying Leah when he really loved her younger sister Rachel. The Bible tells us in Genesis 29:30 that Jacob loved Rachel more than Leah. Because of this we read:
And when the LORD saw that Leah was hated, he opened her womb: but Rachel was barren. – Genesis 29:31 (KJV)
There is one thing that Leah wanted from her husband, Jacob – that he would love her.
(Genesis 29:32) “And Leah conceived, and bare a son, and she called his name Reuben: for she said, Surely the LORD hath looked upon my affliction; now therefore my husband will love me.”
There is one thing that God wants from us – that we would love Him! Loving him is shown through obedience. Jesus demonstrated that obedience to the Father as our example.
And shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments. – Exodus 20:6 (KJV)
And shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me and keep my commandments. – Deuteronomy 5:10 (KJV)
I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me. – Proverbs 8:17 (KJV)
That I may cause those that love me to inherit substance; and I will fill their treasures. – Proverbs 8:21 (KJV)
Jesus said unto them, If God were your Father, ye would love me: for I proceeded forth and came from God; neither came I of myself, but he sent me. – John 8:42 (KJV)
Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again. – John 10:17 (KJV)
If ye love me, keep my commandments. – John 14:15 (KJV)
Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. – John 14:23 (KJV)
[Emphasis mine in the verses above where love me is in bold typeface.]
But the greatest thing is that God first loved us.
But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. – Romans 5:8 (KJV)
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. – John 3:16 (KJV)
God bless, Mike