Bhagavad Gita · Chapter 7: Knowledge and Realization

Bhagavad Gita 7.17

teṣāṃ jñānī nityayukta ekabhaktirviśiṣyate | priyo hi jñānino'tyarthamahaṃ sa ca mama priyaḥ ||

Of these, the wise one, always disciplined and devoted to the One alone, is the best. I am exceedingly dear to the wise, and the wise one is dear to me.

Modern context

The wise devotee is singled out for one reason: their love is undivided and constant. They are not coming to get something or to escape something. And the relationship is described in plain human terms. I am very dear to them, and they are dear to me. This is love as a friendship that goes both ways, not as a transaction. The other three kinds love the divine for what it gives; the wise love it for itself.