Love of God

Every major theistic religion in the world encourages its followers to "Love God" which is usually expressed through religious rituals. Christianity alone tells its followers that "God Loves them". This love is understood and enjoyed through a personal relationship with him. God "Love for us creates a Love for God which creates a Love for God's ways. What is love and where can we find it? If God is a loving god, why is there suffering in the world? Why does God love us?