Is it appropriate to declare Islam despite not feeling genuine love for Allah, and merely having respect and an incomplete understanding?

Praise be to Allah.

Allah's granting you success in choosing Islam is a sign of your sound intellect, for it is the religion of certainty, ease, wisdom, and noble character. Its Book is miraculous and preserved, and its people memorize the Book of their Lord. Satan will try to divert you from guidance by whispering that you need to feel love for Allah before embracing Islam. This is a diversion from Satan, for embracing Islam is done by uttering the two testimonies of faith (Shahadatain), and thereafter, certainty, happiness, and love for Allah and His religion will come.

The story of Thumamah ibn Uthal shows how his heart turned to love Islam and the Messenger after he embraced Islam. This is evidence that love comes after sincere faith. Do not delay in embracing Islam, for the key to Paradise and happiness is uttering the two testimonies of faith. We ask Allah to expand your chest for Islam and guide you to what He loves and approves.