2:1 bowels. The Greek word translated “bowels” actually was the word for intestines, but it was commonly also used figuratively for the deep inner affections of the heart. See also Colossians 3:12.

2:3 esteem other. A modern psychological ploy is to attribute many personal and social problems to individual lack of self-esteem. The Scriptures, however, urge each of us to have “other-esteem,” not self-esteem. Our real problem is self-centeredness and too much self-esteem. However, Paul urges us to be lowly-minded, not high-minded, seeking the good of others, not concerned with ourselves.