Successful software development teams adopt workflows and practices that enable them to deliver working software early and regularly, in small, functioning chunks. Each modification or addition to the source code results in several automated mechanisms which construct the software to be deployed and ensure that it is of high quality before being allowed into production, a word which means installed where it can be accessed by the intended users. This process is frequently referred to as continuous delivery.
Any problem before deployment results in alarms and notifications sent to team members and an "all hands on deck" approach is taken in order to remedy the problems so that the software can be safely deployed.
There are insightful applications of these ideas to our own spiritual health. For instance, each day we should be learning, adding to our repository of knowledge and experience. Each new lesson learned should be checked against our existing knowledge, experience as well as our conscience. If our spiritual well-being is in jeopardy (build failing, failed test suite), what mechanisms are there to alert us How do we ensure that the problem is fixed promptly?
Unit Tests (continuous)
- I will think of the Savior
- I will say uplifting things
- I will follow promptings from the Holy Ghost
- I will look for opportunities to serve and share the gospel
- I will seek after the Spirit
- I will be morally clean and shun pornography
- If ordained to the Priesthood, my actions will be compatible with my Priesthood office
Integration Tests (daily/weekly)
- I will pray morning and night
- I will study the scriptures
- I will take time to ponder the gospel
- I will spend quality time with each member of the family
- I will repent
- I will keep the Sabbath Day holy and partake of the Sacrament
- I will fulfill the duties associated with my callings and assignments
- I will hold Family Home Evening
Systems Tests (monthly/quarterly/yearly)
- I will fast
- I will be an effective home teacher
- I will attend the temple
- I will keep my finances and household in order
- I will set and achieve meaningful goals
- I will draw closer to God
Manual Tests
- I will be worthy and pass my temple recommend interview
- I will seek feedback form others
Supplemental Tests
- I will read my Patriarchal Blessing and seek to follow the counsel it contains
- "Put off the natural man"
- "Put on armor of God"
- "Put your trust in that spirit which leadeth to do good..."
- Alma 5
- D&C 50 (discerning of spirits)
- D&C 76 (description of those who inherit the celestial kingdom)
- Christlike Attributes Activity
When a test fails I will:
- Correct my behavior and repent
- Seek help from family and church leaders