Kingdom At Work
At Jasper, a Kingdom Business providing comprehensive gas solutions — a simple decision to care for employees in a way that pointed them to Jesus sparked transformation that not only impacted their company but has now extended into a broader circle of influence. In 2016, the Beyond Business Summit was born, and it has since become a catalyst for many businesses integrating faith and work.
The Journey Fueled by Faith
The Beyond Business Summit, now in its sixth year, had humble beginnings. Initially, the goal was simple: to invite others to join the journey and see what the Lord could do through their business. Melissa Winebarger, Executive Director of Beyond Business, explains: “We were learning so many new things about faith and work and just knew others desired the same—why not invite them to learn with us?”
As the leadership team at Jasper followed God’s promptings, local business owners and leaders began reaching out to learn more about the changes they were seeing. “We were having coffees and lunches quite often just to share our story. We felt like others needed to catch the Kingdom vision for their businesses, just like we did for ours,” shares Melissa.
The Leap of Faith: Overcoming Fear and Trusting God’s Plan
When the team first envisioned the Summit, there was uncertainty about how the event would unfold. Would people show up? Would the content be valuable? Would everything come together? Despite these fears, the leadership team remained focused on one crucial truth: the event wasn’t about them—it was about glorifying God and providing a platform for others to hear from Him.
“I was literally dependent on the Lord. I knew these Summits would never be successful if the Lord was not in it,” says Melissa. “I really had no choice but to remember that it was for the people coming to receive from the Holy Spirit and for the Lord to be glorified. I had nothing to offer.”
As the event evolved, so did the realization that stepping out in faith was not just about executing a successful event—it was about trusting that God would provide the right people, resources, and guidance. Each year, God has provided new partnerships and speakers, each offering valuable insights and strengthening the Summit’s mission of helping businesses integrate faith with their work.
Influence to Impact: You Are the Light in Your Marketplace
As a business leader, you hold a unique position to influence others. How you lead, the environment you create, and the values you embody will transform your workplace and beyond.
“We get to reveal the King’s heart to people before they even know or recognize there is a King,” shares Melissa. “The work people do affects their soul, so how leaders provide work is transforming people one way or another.”
Don’t shy away from using your influence to reflect God’s heart—He’s placed you in your marketplace to be a light to others. Take that small step today, and watch how your actions and influence create impact!
A Growing Impact
In January 2025, the Beyond Business Summit launched the new year with 81 businesses represented and more than 220 professionals attending. The growth and success of this event are clear indicators that integrating faith and work has the power to transform lives, organizations, and communities.
If you’re a business leader eager to connect with other Kingdom-minded professionals, discover opportunities through Beyond Business or at our upcoming Kingdom Leadership Workshop.