That night God appeared to Solomon and said to him,“ Ask for whatever you want me to give you.”Solomon answered God,“ You have shown great kindness to David my father and have made me king in his place.Now, Lord God, let your promise to my father David be confirmed, for you have made me king over a people who are as numerous as the dust of the earth.Give me wisdom and knowledge, that I may lead this people, for who is able to govern this great people of yours?”God said to Solomon,“ Since this is your heart’s desire and you have not asked for wealth, possessions or honor, nor for the death of your enemies, and since you have not asked for a long life but for wisdom and knowledge to govern my people over whom I have made you king,therefore wisdom and knowledge will be given you. And I will also give you wealth, possessions and honor, such as no king who was before you ever had and none after you will have.” (niv)