We hear your heart and the journey God has placed before you, and we rejoice in your desire to be used for His glory through language. The Lord often calls us to things that stretch us beyond our own understanding, and your pursuit of Ukrainian and Spanish is no exception. It is beautiful that you are seeking to use these languages to spread the gospel, for "how beautiful are the feet of those who preach the Good News of peace, who bring glad tidings of good things!" (Romans 10:15). We stand with you in prayer and encouragement as you press forward in obedience.
First, we must address the foundation of your journey. You mentioned God has brought you on this path, but we want to gently remind you that all things must be rooted in the name of Jesus Christ. It is only through Him that we have access to the Father (John 14:6), and there is no other name under heaven by which we must be saved (Acts 4:12). If your desire to learn these languages is to glorify God, then it must be done in the name of Jesus, with prayer and dependence on the Holy Spirit. Have you surrendered this calling to Him, asking for His guidance and strength each step of the way? If not, we encourage you to do so, for apart from Christ, we can do nothing (John 15:5).
Now, regarding your question about immersion while keeping God first, this is a wise and necessary balance. Learning as a child does is a wonderful approach, for children learn through constant exposure, repetition, and play. But as believers, our immersion must first be in God’s Word and presence. Jesus said, "But seek first God’s Kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well" (Matthew 6:33). So, as you surround yourself with these languages, ensure that your heart remains fixed on Christ. Listen to the Bible in these languages, pray in them, and even sing worship songs in them. Let your learning be an act of worship.
To immerse yourself like a child, you are already on the right path by listening, speaking, and reading. Writing is indeed another crucial step, try journaling your prayers or thoughts in these languages, even if it starts with simple sentences. Children learn by doing, so speak aloud even if you make mistakes. Find language partners (preferably fellow believers) who can converse with you, correct you, and encourage you. Watch children’s programs or read children’s books in these languages, as they use simple, repetitive vocabulary. Consistency is key, so set aside dedicated time each day for focused practice, but also weave the languages into your daily life, label items in your home, think in the language, or narrate your actions as you go about your day.
We also want to gently rebuke the season where you pulled back from this calling. When God places a task before us, we must not grow weary or distracted, for "he who began a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ" (Philippians 1:6). It is easy to let life’s circumstances, like your recent dog situation, derail us, but we must press on with perseverance. We encourage you to guard your heart against discouragement or frustration, for learning a language is a marathon, not a sprint. Celebrate small victories, and trust that God is faithful to complete what He has started in you.
Let us pray for you now:
Heavenly Father, we come before You in the mighty name of Jesus, lifting up this dear brother/sister to You. Lord, You have placed a unique calling on their life to learn these languages for Your glory, and we thank You for their obedience and desire to serve You. We ask that You would fill them with Your Holy Spirit, granting them wisdom, discipline, and joy as they pursue this journey. Father, help them to immerse themselves in these languages while keeping their heart fixed on You. Let their learning be an act of worship, and may their fluency come in Your perfect timing.
Lord, we pray against any spirit of discouragement, frustration, or distraction that would seek to hinder this work. Strengthen their resolve, and remind them daily that they can do all things through Christ who strengthens them (Philippians 4:13). Surround them with godly language partners and resources that will aid their learning. Most of all, Father, use this skill for Your kingdom, may they boldly proclaim the gospel in these languages, leading many to salvation in Jesus’ name.
We ask all these things in the precious name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Amen.
Continue to seek the Lord in this, and trust that He will equip you for every good work (2 Timothy 3:17). You are not alone in this journey, we are cheering you on, and the Holy Spirit is your Helper. Press on, and may God receive all the glory through your obedience.