House Republicans have introduced a new proposal tucked into a broader energy package—one that would authorize the sale of over 350,000 acres of public land in Nevada and Utah. On its face, the idea sounds simple enough: use underutilized federal land to alleviate housing shortages, boost local economies, and fund public works. The estimated revenue could reach $18 billion, which sounds like a fiscal win. But for those of us who view politics through the lens of both Scripture and the Constitution, the matter isn’t just economic—it’s moral, cultural, and even spiritual.

I believe in the God-given responsibility of stewardship, the blessing of private property, and the importance of local governance. But those values don’t automatically rubber-stamp every land sale proposed under the banner of “growth.” We need to ask: Are we honoring God’s creation, preserving America’s heritage, and ensuring the good of future generations—or are we mortgaging our children’s inheritance for a quick cash fix?

Growth, Freedom, and Opportunity

One of the strongest arguments in favor of the land sales is the urgent need for housing in rapidly growing regions. In places like Clark County, Nevada, and across parts of Utah, the housing market is overheating. Skyrocketing prices are making it hard for working-class families to find affordable homes near where they work and worship. By unlocking federally controlled land near these urban areas, developers could create new neighborhoods that relieve the pressure and give families a place to plant roots.

Supporters also point to the potential for economic revitalization. Land sales could attract private investment, spark infrastructure development, and create thousands of jobs. The expected $18 billion in revenue could be funneled back into communities through roads, schools, and utilities. This isn’t about selling land for the sake of greed—at least not on paper. It’s about giving regions the tools they need to thrive without depending solely on Washington.

There’s also the issue of local control. The federal government owns over 80% of Nevada’s land and a large portion of Utah’s. That’s not just a number—it’s a chokehold on local economies. Counties and municipalities often can’t expand, build, or even manage natural disasters without getting permission from federal agencies. Handing more land over to state and local authorities could help restore the balance of power that our Founders envisioned, where decisions are made closest to the people they affect.

Stewardship, Heritage, and Transparency

However, there’s a flip side that deserves just as much—if not more—attention. The land in question isn’t just “vacant” space; it includes critical wildlife habitats, water sources, and ecologically sensitive areas. If these lands are opened to drilling, mining, and unchecked development, the damage could be irreversible. Scripture is clear on our duty here. Genesis 2:15 says, “And the Lord God took the man, and put him into the garden of Eden to dress it and to keep it.” That speaks directly to stewardship. We are not to exploit creation for short-term profit, but to care for it as a sacred trust from the Creator Himself.

Beyond the environmental risks, there’s also the cultural and social cost. Public lands are part of the American birthright. They’re places where families camp, hike, fish, and hunt—where we can go to find peace and inspiration. Many of these areas also hold deep historical and spiritual significance for Native American tribes. Privatizing these lands means risking the loss of access, history, and heritage that belongs to all Americans, not just the highest bidder.

And let’s not forget the way this proposal was introduced—quietly slipped into a massive bill and debated late at night. That’s not transparency. That’s politics as usual, and it’s exactly the kind of backroom dealing that Americans are fed up with on both sides of the aisle. If the plan truly serves the public good, why not shine a light on it? Why not involve local communities, conservationists, and spiritual leaders in a full and open debate?

Stewardship and Wisdom in Action

This issue comes down to how we define prosperity and responsibility. Yes, the Lord has given us the resources of this earth to be used wisely—but He’s also called us to preserve and protect His creation. Psalm 24:1 declares, “The earth is the Lord’s, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein.” That doesn’t sound like a call to sell it off with minimal oversight for an injection of federal cash.

We also need to think generationally. Are we leaving our children a richer nation because we sold a few parcels of land, or a poorer one because we destroyed something irreplaceable? The wise builder thinks about the next foundation, not just the next paycheck. We must pursue economic growth and housing development with an eye toward sustainability, integrity, and lasting value—not just expediency.

Proceed, But with Guardrails

There is a middle road here—a prudent path between panic and profit. It’s not inherently wrong to sell federal land for responsible development, especially in urban or suburban areas where housing is desperately needed. But this must be done with discernment, with environmental safeguards in place, and with full public involvement.

Selling off vast swaths of land without due diligence, under the cover of night, and without proper stewardship principles is reckless and unworthy of a people who claim to follow both constitutional and Christian values. Our God is a God of order, not chaos—and He expects us to use the minds He gave us to make wise, thoughtful decisions.

So, let’s push for better housing. Let’s support local economies. But let’s also be guardians of the land, not just dealers of it. Because once it’s gone, it’s not coming back—and neither is the trust of the people if we let this land slip away without a fight.