In today’s materialistic world, many Christians face a dilemma when it comes to achieving “success”. However, upon closer examination of the entrepreneurial landscape, it becomes clear that there are two distinct types of entrepreneurs. The first group consists of those who prioritize wealth above all else, often at the expense of others. The second group, on the other hand, comprises individuals who value people above money and strive to use their wealth for the greater good. Recently, we had the privilege of speaking with Matthew Gurney, a devout Christian and entrepreneur who embodies this latter approach, focusing on loving people and using his business ventures as a force for positive change.
Matthew Gurney’s journey as an entrepreneur is a testament to the power of faith and perseverance. Starting with a small business cleaning gutters, he has built multiple successful businesses from scratch, including Maggie’s Maids, Withered (landscaping and hardscaping), and Gurney Property Group. However, his most successful venture to date is Watchman Roofing LLC, which he launched in early 2021 and earned well over six figures within the first six months of its launch.
But what sets Matthew’s story apart from other entrepreneurs is his unwavering faith in God. Matthew has always sought God’s guidance and followed His principles in his entrepreneurial journey, even when it meant taking risks or stepping out of his comfort zone. His faith has been an integral part of his entrepreneurial journey, and he credits his success to listening to God’s voice.
Matthew’s journey began when his Pastor suggested he clean gutters for a supplemental income. He prayed about the opportunity and felt that God was leading him to start his own business. Thus, he rebranded his gutter-cleaning business as In The Gutters and expanded its services to include pressure washing. For the next three years, Matthew ran this business while also working on other ventures.
Through his journey, Matthew has learned many valuable lessons, including the importance of cash flow and dealing with people in business. He advises entrepreneurs to build up their cash flow to avoid going into debt and to keep their margins healthy. Matthew also emphasizes the importance of dealing with people in business, as entrepreneurs have a responsibility to their employees and need to make sacrifices for them.
Matthew’s businesses are each named after a Bible verse that has inspired him in his journey. In The Gutters started with a verse from Genesis 30:38, which gave confirmation for it’s launch. Maggie’s Maids is named after his mother’s nickname. The verse attached is John 14:2, which describes the mansions Jesus promises in heaven. Withered is named after Isaiah 40:8, which speaks that even if the grass and flowers wither away, the Word of God will endure forever. Watchman Roofing is accompanied by the verse from Ezekiel 33:6, which also represents the company’s slogan of ‘Safeguarding Your Kingdom.’ Gurney Property Group is the first business that Matthew felt that he could put his own name on, with a verse that has convicted him in his walk with God and with men; Proverbs 22:6 speaks of a good name being chosen rather than great riches, which only culminates his entrepreneurial journey.
Matthew’s story serves as a source of inspiration for anyone looking to start their own business and follow their dreams. From cleaning gutters to launching multiple successful businesses, Matthew has shown that with hard work and God’s guidance, anything is possible. His entrepreneurial journey is a testament to the power of faith and perseverance, and his commitment to honoring God through his businesses is an inspiration to us all.
