In the light of the king’s countenance is life.
The blessedness of the king’s favour
This is a general proverb. Its primary application is to royalty. In the previous verse the wrath of a king has been, by a striking metaphor, represented as messengers of death (Esther 7:6-10). When a king is angry how swift and sure is his vengeance. Before the word goes forth out of his mouth his will is executed; messengers of death stand about him ready to execute his indignant sentence. And so a wise man will seek to soften the king’s wrath and pacify him--nay, will keep at peace with him. In this verse “the light of his countenance” and “his favour” supply the antithesis to his wrath. Apply this to the King of kings, and what a sublime lesson on life! Here we have suggested--
1. The blessedness of reconciliation.
2. The conditions of serviceableness. A holy life in its ideal combines two elements--abiding in the light and love of God, and yielding fruit in service. This proverb suggests sunshine and shower. He who is reconciled to God in Christ abides in the light of His smile. He walks in light and dwells in love, and so every condition of holiness and happiness is assured. (Homiletic Review.)