Look! Also, there was a voice from the heavens that said: ‘This is my Son, the beloved, whom I have approved.’”a (Matthew 3:16, 17) Spoken by Jehovah himself, those tender words tell us much about the kind of Father he is. Notice three things that Jehovah expressed to his Son.

First, by the words “this is my Son,” Jehovah was saying, in effect, ‘I am proud to be your Father.’ A discerning father satisfies his children’s hunger for recognition and attention. Children need to be reassured that they are valued as unique members of the family. Imagine what it must have meant to Jesus​—even as an adult—​to receive such recognition from his Father!

Second, by referring to his Son as “the beloved,” Jehovah openly expressed his love for Jesus. In a sense, the Father was saying, ‘I love you.’ A good father tells his children that he dearly loves them. Such words​—accompanied by wholesome affection—​help children to flourish. How it must have touched the heart of Jesus to hear his Father’s voice expressing love for him!

Third, by the words “I have approved,” Jehovah expressed his approval of his Son. It was as if Jehovah were saying, ‘Son, I am pleased with what you have done.’ A loving father looks for opportunities to let his children know that he is pleased with the good things they say or do. Children draw strength and courage from parental approval. Surely it must have encouraged Jesus to hear that he had his Father’s approval!