That wisdom thing is really working out well for Solomon.
I Kings 10 tells us of the fruit of Solomon's gift of wisdom.
The opening verses describe the Queen of Sheba coming to visit Solomon because word has reached her of his great wisdom. She brings treasures and gifts - but also difficult questions that had been bothering her. When Solomon is able to tell her all that is on her mind and answer her questions, she considers him to be even greater than she had been told. His fame and reputation continue to spread.
Solomon's wisdom also guided him in the business of trade and exploration. Ships regularly journeyed to Ophir and returned with gold, wood, and precious stones (vs. 11). Exotic animals were brought back and appeared in Solomon's court in Jerusalem, such as apes and peacocks (vs. 22). Solomon engaged in commerce by trading with Egypt and Kue, as well as with the kings of the Hittites and Arameans.
The result of all this wisdom and trading was great riches and opulence for Solomon and the people of Israel. Silver became so plentiful it was regarded as a common thing (vs. 21). Solomon's throne was of ivory and gold, with carved lions. His palace was decorated with golden shields. Through the exercise of his wisdom that he had received from God as a special blessing, Solomon "excelled all the kings of the earth in riches and wisdom" (vs. 23). In fact, the "whole earth" came to hear Solomon's wisdom, bringing along tribute in appreciation (vs. 24-25).
You can certainly see why Solomon is regarded as the wisest man who ever lived - and how valuable a thing wisdom is!
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