John Calvin Commentary Philippians 2:19

"But I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy shortly unto you, that I also may be of good comfort, when I know your state." — Philippians 2:19 (ASV)

But I hope. He promises them the coming of Timothy, so that, expecting him, they may bear up more courageously and not give way to impostors.

For just as in war the expectation of help animates soldiers, preventing them from giving way, so this consideration also was well-suited to greatly encourage the Philippians: “One will come very soon, who will set himself against the schemes of our enemies.” If the mere expectation of him had so much influence, his presence would exert a much more powerful effect.

We must take note of the condition — according to which he submits himself to the providence of God, forming no purpose, but with that leading the way, as it is surely not permissible to determine anything about the future, except, so to speak, under the Lord’s hand.

When he adds, that I may be in tranquillity, he declares his affection for them, since he was so concerned about their dangers that he was not at ease until he received news of their prosperity.