To be loved is one of our deep and essential needs. This is a known psychological truth.  A famous psychologist named Maslow developed a model known as Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs.
Right in the middle is the need to be loved – to belong (belonging). This is about intimate relationship.  “Examples of belongingness needs include friendship, intimacy, trust, and acceptance, receiving and giving affection, and love”.  Dr. Saul McLeod, In Simple Psychology December 29, 2020.
Of course Maslow is speaking specifically about human relationship.  As people of faith, we realize that an even deeper need is for us to be loved by God.  We do not even have life apart from God’s love for us.  Our faith stands firm in the Saviour’s love for us.  Apart from him and his love, we have nothing of any permanence. In fact, Scripture makes it abundantly clear that where there is love, there is God. 1 John 4:16 says: God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him. God is love, and all who live in love live in God, and God lives in them.  God is love, and he who abides in love abides in God, and God in him.
So wherever we experience love – giving or receiving love, God is there, and we are giving a faithful witness to His love. When we are deeply rooted in His love, we are truly alive!