Paul hopes to send Timothy soon so he can be cheered by news about the Philippians: Philippians 2:19. He says Timothy has proven worth and has served with Paul in the gospel like a son with a father: Philippians 2:20–22.
In Philippians 2:19–24, Paul explains his travel plans and why he wants to send Timothy to Philippi soon. He hopes Timothy’s visit will bring Paul good news about how the Philippians are doing and lift his spirits. Paul praises Timothy’s character and concern for them, contrasting him with others who focus on their own interests. This passage follows Paul’s call for a shared mindset and humble service (2:1–18), and it begins a set of concrete examples and travel notes that show what that mindset looks like in real relationships. Immediately before, Paul has described his own costly service and urged the Philippians to hold firm (2:17–18).
Paul describes travel plans that are deliberately framed as hopes, not guarantees. He “hopes in the Lord Jesus” to send Timothy soon and expects Timothy’s report about the Philippians to encourage him (explicit in verses 19–20).
A careful answer keeps the immediate passage, the book's argument, and the whole-Bible storyline together, so the question is answered in context instead of as a detached idea.
Start with Philippians 2:19, then read the surrounding section so the answer stays connected to the passage's flow.
19But I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, that I also may be cheered up when I know how you are doing.