11 Then their father Israel said to them, “If it must be so, then do this: take some of the best products of the land in your bags, and carry down to the man as a present, a little balm and a little honey, aromatic gum and myrrh, pistachio nuts and almonds. 12 “Take double the money in your hand, and take back in your hand the money that was returned in the mouth of your sacks; perhaps it was a mistake. 13 “Take your brother also, and arise, return to the man; 14 and may God Almighty grant you compassion in the sight of the man, so that he will release to you your other brother and Benjamin. And as for me, if I am bereaved of my children, I am bereaved.”15 So the men took this present, and they took double the money in their hand, and Benjamin; then they arose and went down to Egypt and stood before Joseph.
It is likely that Jacob is here thinking of a familiar story with his father and grandfather. Abraham was once asked to sacrifice his only child, and here Jacob was with a decision. He could let his youngest son go. This was the last son of his wife Rachel, for whom he had labored fourteen years. Benjamin had likely been his only comfort after Joseph had “died”. Finally, he puts it in God’s hands, and releases Benjamin from his control. All he can do now is trust God. Sometimes we need to let go of what is most valuable to us, and trust God with it. You never know what He might have in store.