December 26th was the 12-year anniversary of the Duggar Family Fan Blog. We cannot believe that it has been more than a decade since we wrote our first post. Since December 26th, 2009, our blog has received 257 million page views.
From the start, we have been committed to sharing factual updates on Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar and their family. We have always avoided interjecting our personal opinions. That being said, after the Josh Duggar trial, we feel it necessary to say a few things.
This situation has been heartbreaking for us, as we know it has been heartbreaking for those of you who have followed the Duggars over the years. Like many of you, we had hoped that during the trial, evidence would show that Josh was innocent. But after a lengthy trial, he was found guilty.
Our hearts go out to every child who has been exploited, and we know that the crime of child pornography goes against everything the Duggar family stands for. We strongly condemn child pornography and everything Josh Duggar has been convicted of.
That being said, one person’s moral failures does not mean that an entire belief system is flawed. For those of us who are Christians, our faith is not in a human, a family, or a television show. Our faith is in Christ, who is the ultimate and final judge.
Has this blog been worth it? We have spent upwards of 10,000 hours working on this fan blog, with the goal of using it to encourage others. For 12 years, our blog has been a safe platform for people to learn about and chat about a family with 19 children that has captivated the minds and hearts of hundreds of thousands (perhaps millions) across the globe. Is that all negated because of Josh’s actions? We believe the answer is no.
We still find the Duggar family’s mission
and values encouraging, even if one of the family members has failed in
upholding them. And as we stated above, our faith as Christians is not in the Duggars. They are human, and like every human on this earth, they are imperfect. Our faith is in God alone, and He is the only One we look to for the perfect moral standard.
Our prayers go out for children who are exploited by child
pornography and for the entire Duggar family, especially Anna and her
children. Should we continue our blog? We have decided for the time being
to continue to post, in order to allow people to work through their emotions
and have an opportunity to post their thoughts. Many of the other Duggar children are involved in interesting projects and endeavors, and we look forward to keeping you informed on their activities.
Sincerely,
Lily and Ellie, Creators of the Duggar Family Blog
Thank you so much for your work and effort that you have been putting in this blog for so long. I think that it is the right desicion to continue posting. Don't let the actions of one single human being stop what you have been doing successfully for so long!
ReplyDeleteLily and Ellie Thank-you so much for all your work on the blog and continuing to do so. We appreciate it so very much. Thank-you for such a heartfelt message. Your comments are right on. It is a New Year and a new beginning. Happy New Year to all.
ReplyDeleteThank-you Lily and Ellie for continuing to post this blog.
ReplyDeleteI have followed the Duggar family for many years and rarely post comments but I felt I had to respond. Everything you have said expresses my beliefs. There are 18 other children some with families and of course Anna whose lives continue on and who have shared their lives with us over the years. Personally, I hope your blog will continue to share with us, their fans, all the events in the Duggar families going forward.
I look forward to hearing about the other Duggars, the ones we have not heard anything about for a long time, eg Josiah and Lauren, Justin and Claire, John David and Abby.
ReplyDeleteThank you for all your time. Please continue the blog. We value it!
ReplyDeleteThank you for your statement. Josh has broken many hearts not just his family's but those of friends and loyal fans with his consistently bad choices. He has cast a long shadow over the entire family. I'm glad you have decided to continue the blog. The family will continue to grow and learn. At the end of the day true strength is shown through how you deal with adversity and disappointment not by how you receive blessings.
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for this letter. You work so hard and I appreciate you! I can’t imagine how heavy all the negativity can be that flows through here. But thanks for keeping things going, at least for now, and hopefully it will help people grieve and process like you mentioned.
ReplyDeleteYes! Keep the blog. It is the one place I trust to find the true updates.
ReplyDeleteWell said. I look forward to continuing reading this blog.
ReplyDeleteSo glad the blog will continue. I've said all along, that there are 18 other siblings that do not need to be labeled like Josh. I am interested in how their lives are going. Same with Anna and her kids. Would love to know also, about John David, Joseph, Josiah and their sweet families. Maybe they've decided to stay quiet and out of any sm. Can't blame them if that's the case, but I still think of them and hope they're fine. Thanks for keeping this blog going as I'm sure it hasn't been easy.
ReplyDeleteThis was beautifully worded. Thank you ladies for addressing this. It is true the Duggar's are as human as the rest of us are, and are NOT above the temptations of Sin. only God is perfect. . God Bless you, Lily and Ellie ❤️🙏🏻 My heart and prayers go to Anna and her children.
ReplyDeleteThank you for your thoughtful statement and for deciding to continue the blog. I've been a reader since before Josie was born and would love to keep up with the rest of the family.
ReplyDeleteVery well put. Thank you Lily and Ellie.
ReplyDeleteThank you very much for your wonderful words of wisdom! I understand and respect why the Blog is being kept active; however the Facebook page at this time is being kept inactive. I hope and pray you and Ellie can continue this blog.
ReplyDeleteThank you for doing this blog, and for continuing to do so. Many are still interested in the Duggar family, as we have watched them grow up. All should not be punished for the actions of one. I look forward to reading about their further endeavors if that is what they wish for. And it would also be understandable if some or all of them would choose to have privacy concerning their lives. May 2022 be a fantastic year for them. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteAmen!❤
DeleteThank you for your thoughtful comments and God be with all the family, I love this family and love when we were watching them on tv. And I hope to see them again , God Bless
DeleteI'm so glad that u see it that way and I hope that the show continues because we are not perfect in any way we all sin and the rest should not have to suffer because of one person ,I love counting on and the duggar family
DeleteThank you and I agree with and I applaud your words regarding the blog,the show,the Duggars...and moreover, I also acknowledge and love the SOURCE behind the wonder and beauty of this incredible family... and THAT would be: the Holy Spirit of the Living God and Creator (of Abraham) and His mercies in Christ Jesus.
DeleteThe Lord is reason for FAITH in all standards of righteousness, all repentance, all mercies, forgivness, love, and new beginnings.
God bless you
ReplyDeleteVery well said.
ReplyDeleteI hope you continue to blog.
You have always done a fantastic job. So much love for you and your families.
With love,
Alaskan Duggar Fan
Amen!
DeleteWhat a beautiful post you have written! I support your thoughts 100%. The news about Josh is very troubling but any of us could face equally challenging trials. It is the sharing and learning from one another that is important. I have looked to this post for accurate insights about the Duggar family along with postings by the older children. Life is a growing process for all of us. You do an excellent job with the blog, Lily and Ellie!
ReplyDelete"Equally challenging trials??" What about the children who were tortured to make content because people like Josh exist? This is not a trial brought by God to challenge Josh's faith. Josh is one of the bad ones.
Delete@7:06 Thank you! Only those who commit crimes such as this will face similar trials.
DeleteI don't think either of you read DBartonRD's post correctly. I think what they were saying was, any of us can face the same challenging trial, i.e., someone in your family guilty of heinous crimes and having to deal with it as a family as the Duggars are currently having to.
DeleteHey Jay, perhaps you shouldn't try to guess at what others are thinking. Most reading and responding here are adults who can read and interpret what they have read with a fair sense of accuracy.
DeleteI would love for you to continue this blog;)
ReplyDeletePrayers for the Duggar family,
Amen sister!❤
DeleteI appreciate your blog. Their other children seem to be doing well & I enjoy hearing your blog posts about them.
ReplyDeleteYes, please, continue with the blog! I totally agree that just because one family member fell short of the glory of God doesn't mean "condemning" the entire family. They truly are an inspiration and brothers/sisters in Christ.🙏💜
ReplyDeleteI have never commented on a post before, but I feel like that was a very well spoken post. I think sometimes we as Christians put people on these pedestals of perfection. Truly the only perfect one is Christ! Sadly, it seems like a lot of these "reality stars" seem to have things happen to their families after stardom happens. I have watched the Duggars for years and it has sadden me to see all the conflict between the different family members and problems that has happened. I feel like it is exactly what the world is waiting and wanting to happen to Christians. It is an easy way for people to blame Christianity as the problem. By all means no Christian in their right mind would be okay with the things Josh was convicted of. Prayers for Anna and her children. May the Lord give them the peace and comfort that only He can give!
ReplyDeleteHis “behavior” began before they started appearing on television.
DeleteChristianity is not the problem. An extreme view of Christianity plus an extreme view of how important you think you are, those are the problems.
Delete6:15 Fully agree
DeleteWell said! Thank you for continuing your hard work.
ReplyDeleteThank you Lily and Ellie! We appreciate all the time you have put into this blog on the Duggars; I look at it almost daily. I couldn't agree more with everything you said, and I am so thankful that you are going to continue blogging on what I believe is a godly family, who do encourage my faith. I personally wish everyone would look at their entire lives and not just this one issue, which only involved one member of the family; if they would, I think they too would feel the same as I do. Thank you so much, and please keep us up to date on Anna and the kids too, who are also innocent bystanders. May God bless you and may He continue to bless the Duggar family!
ReplyDeletePerfectly said!!❤
DeleteI completely agree! Unfortunately almost every family has a member that has hurt the rest of the family with their actions. Josh made his choices and chose not to live the way that he was raised. It doesn’t affect the rest of the family who have behaved honorably. I would still enjoy hearing about the rest of the Duggars.
Delete9:15, I respectfully disagree with your statement that Josh’s actions don’t affect his siblings. I’m not saying they hold any blame but they are affected. Any one of us who has a family member found guilty of such a crime would be deeply affected. That’s only natural.
DeleteWe pray for the Duggars, especially for Anna and her children. There is healing and love available for all. There are Christian ministries that can offer help and hope to Josh as well. The Samson Society is one. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteAfter seeing how JB behaved at the pre-trial, I no longer want to see him making money and gaining attention from The Duggar Brand. And, it is past time for the Duggar adult children to move on from using their fame to earn a living. If they don't want negative attention, then stop seeking any attention, period.
ReplyDeleteI agree.
DeleteI also agree with this comment.
Delete@3:59 I agree
DeletePray tell....WHICH of the adult children use " their fame" to earn livings? If you are talking about the GIRLS....I see no reason why they SHOULDN'T have IG, or YT accounts....and while they definitely contribute to their respective households income, I doubt very highly they 'rely' on it. All 4 girls HUSBANDS support them.
DeleteAgreed
DeleteAgreed ❣❣
DeleteWell said. The Duggar parents have showed poor family values by not protecting or emotionally supporting their daughters. They are not parents to be looked up to. I do not want to see them profit further.
DeleteThis !
DeleteI agree
Delete@3:59 and @11:59 I totally agree. @8:53 exactly what does Ben for a living? The other 3 husband's work. Jim Bob and Michelle should not profit anymore. They threw their daughters under the bus. I use to watch 19 kids and counting, found it entertaining. I didn't agree with some of their beliefs, but that's OK. But, then to find out how they hurt their children, the Duggar brand is gone.
DeleteThe comment by 3:59 applies to everyone on tv, in the movies, and on social media. That’s the whole point of these outlets-to make money.
DeleteDisagree... I don't see a problem with Jim Bob. You can say that his run for office was poor timing and could be considered insensitive but I think he just didn't want his sons actions to stop him from living life fully. I think he should have waited but it doesn't make him a bad person.
DeleteLet's see... He has 15 adult kids over 18. What happened with Josh is awful. However, all the other kids except for Jill seem to have a good relationship with their parents and spend time with Jim Bob and Michelle. Nobody's perfect but they know him better than we do and his adult kids seem to love him and continue to want to spend time with him and the rest of the family. I wouldn't take the word on one son in-law who seems to want attention from bashing his in-laws publicly. It saddens me that Jill and Derrek are holding grudges that are clearly keeping them from enjoying big events and get togethers with the Duggar side of the family. They are missing out on so much. Even if they were right on some issues, let it go and stop expecting perfection. If I had acted like this I would have missed out on many great years with my Dad as an adult because he made many mistakes with me when I was a kid. I accepted him for what he is. He was a flawed man in some ways and a great man in other ways who loved me very much. I grew up and stopped dwelling on past mistakes and we had many great times together as an adult because of that. I wish that for Jill.
DeleteI've always enjoyed watching the kids even thoughI didn't agree with some of the parenting methods, but what is really awful is when the father said in court he couldn't remember the details of what happened to his daughters when it was clearly discussed on the interview that was done several years ago. Then to learn that it was actually worse than what viewers were led to believe. Especially what happened to the youngest daughter. I feel like we were sold a bag of lies for them to profit from. I don't find anything Christian at all in that behavior.
ReplyDeleteI totally agree. More truth has been coming out about the father and his apparent power over people. Power corrupts, and it has corrupted this family. No one is beyond God's reach. My prayer is that the father be exposed and brought to his knees in true repentance.
DeleteI 100% agree with you.
DeleteI have to agree with you. My opinion of Jim Bob has suffered during this whole thing.
DeleteYaaay!! So glad you decided to keep up the blog for now. I am still very interested in the adventures of the Duggar Family. Plus, I choose not to use YouTube due to its corrupt management, so this is the only way I have been getting updates. Thanks for all your hard work!
ReplyDeleteTy sincerely for what u wrote, my heart to them meaning ALL the Dugger family,much support...prayers and live ALWAYS
ReplyDeleteThe Josh Duggar downfall became public knowledge back in 2015, and in spite of his corrupt behavior, fans have continued to enjoy your Duggar Family Blog, so there's no reason to stop now. I hope you will continue this Blog for a few more years. The other family members have so much going on, and it's always a pleasure to hear about what they're up to. And news about new engagements, marriages and babies is always a joy. Thank you for all your tremendous work.
ReplyDeleteI enjoy reading your posts!
ReplyDeletePlease continue. My prayers are with Anna. I hope the Duggars see the truth.
ReplyDeleteThey did see the truth, that's why they went to the court. Did you see their statements? Josh is the one appealing, not his family.
DeleteThis is my 1st time to see the blog. I was so impressed and thankful for your thoughts and that you will continue the blog. Thank you!
ReplyDeleteWhat a Wonderful statement! Thank you for your Blog, please continue
ReplyDeleteWell said. Thought about Michelle this Christmas and how her mother heart must be hurting. Hoping God is with her, Anna, and the kids. Such hard things that effect many.
ReplyDeleteThank you for this well-written post and for continuing this blog!
ReplyDeleteWho is JB?
ReplyDeleteIt stands for Jiffy Peanut(Butter)
DeleteJim Bob obviously
DeleteAnd you are on this blog because…?
DeleteIt is for Jim Bob the patriarch of the Duggar family.
DeleteThis certainly is an issue of cancel culture - do we “cancel” the Duggars. I think it’s everyone’s personal decision if they choose to follow them moving forward. Certainly his siblings should not be ostracized because of Josh’s actions. I do think this is an important opportunity to look deeper into the culture Bill Gothard created and how his teachings and actions affect the people who have subscribed to him. I don’t see many people asking why Josh did these things or seeking to get him psychological care beyond his community circle. I send the family best wishes as they navigate a impossible situation. I hope Anna and the kids get all the support they need.
ReplyDeleteMy prayers go out to Anna. But I'm having the hardest time understanding how she walked into court everyday holding his hand. Also he still hasn't confessed to the crime. He needs to confess and repent.
ReplyDeleteDear Lily & Ellie: I think that your decision to keep your blog going, is the correct one. I am still a fan of the other 18 Duggar Siblings,and I am looking forward to hearing what is going on in their lives.
ReplyDeleteNo one's perfect it's not the fault of any of the children I think the family is wonderful an the children beautiful Anna an her children God is watching over ur family God bless
ReplyDeleteLord knows if we all were judged by the actions of family members
ReplyDeleteNo one would be able to hold their heads up.
I hope you continue on with the blog,I do like reading about the other family members and I appreciate the hardworking you pour into each blog. God bless you both
ReplyDeleteI have always been saddened to see the Duggar family attacked repeatedly over the years for every one of Josh Duggar's transgressions. Thank you for continuing to post about this lovely family. Josh is an adult and God gives us all free will. His family is not to blame for what he has done.
ReplyDeleteExcept parents are responsible for what their minor children do while living in their home. Look up "parental responsibility" or "parental liability."
Delete6:27 PM: when parents found out what Josh was doing, they dealt with it.
DeleteAnd how effective was that, 3:23?
DeleteWhat an excellent statement, and this Christian agrees with every word of it. I'm so sick of the media, social media and toxic individuals gleefully using Josh as a battering ram against the family. How many people in this country have a relative in jail? Do all these people get attacked for THEIR relatives crimes? I'm also sick of Amy Duggar and Derrick Dillard self-appointing to crusade against their own family by airing their dirty laundry, when their real issues seem to be their private differences with their relatives. I still continue to believe that anyone who hates the Duggars hates them because of the good in them. Evil hates the good and always strives to destroy it. This family is not perfect, like ours, but they are sure being mercilessly attacked at a time when they are hurting and vulnerable. It isn't right.
ReplyDeleteNo, good hates evil.
DeleteOf course good hates evil, just as evil hates the good. But evil people seem to particularly relish attacking the Duggars. That was my point.
DeleteCould it be they're "attacking" the evil the Duggars are doing? Evil should not be ignored and deserves to be called out.
DeleteChild pornography is not the correct term. It was Child Sexual Abuse Material CSAM. There is an important difference.
ReplyDeleteAmen to that I agree
ReplyDeletePlease continue to post!
ReplyDeleteWhen I was 21-22 I was involved in an abusive affair with a married man. It was Christmas 2013 and I sat alone in my apartment while he was with his family. 19KAC was on Netflix and I binge watched their show. It was the first time I'd seen a family live out their faith in such a way. It made me realize I could make different choices and have a different life, a joyful one that honored God.
Fast forward to today: I'm happily married, a SAHM, and living a Christ-honoring life to the best of my abilities.
The Duggars TRULY encouraged me and showed me how life could be! I'm grateful to them.
I am glad you are changed. When I was 11, I found out at school that my father was having affair with woman who's daughter went to my school. You can't imagine the embarrassment I had at school because of it. I confronted my dad before I told my mom. My dad left my mom for the other woman. I would not go see him until the custody battle was over and I was forced to see him every other weekend. I didn't talk to him or the other woman. I wouldn't eat. It took about 8 visits for me to start talking and I argued with them for 3 days that I was there. I would come home hoarse. I called the other woman many nasty names and warned her that he would do the same to her. And two years later, he did. He left her for another woman. I was also cruel to the other lady to the point that my dad finally stopped the visits. I haven't talked to him in 20+ years. I still hold onto to that anger unfortunately. I try to let it go.
DeleteAmanda, what a powerful testimony. Thank you for sharing. I believe the Duggars' love and faith have inspired and encouraged many. To God be the glory - throughout history He has used imperfect people (aren't we all) to do amazing things.
Delete7:22, my absolute sympathy goes out to you! I hope you can forgive him someday so you can let go of your anger for your sake.. not his
Delete@7:22 - sorry that your father did not show you much love. All parents are different. People are born in very many different situations. It takes time to realize that you are brought into this world by God, who placed you in these conditions because He knew you are strong enough to handle it. You are a separate person from your parents. It would be nice to have a loving family, but not so many are granted it.
DeleteI just want to say amen @7:39! It's always great to see change. And @7:22, it's brave to admit that you are angry. A lot of people go through life saying they are fine when they really aren't. That's a good start. I was in your shoes too. I forgave my dad although he doesn't want nothing to do with me. I forgave my ex-step mother who I was very mean too. The irony I have almost a mother-daughter relationship with her now despite everything that has happened. I pray and hope you find closure and happiness.
DeleteNot perfect, but forgiven. Please continue with the blog.
ReplyDeleteTo be forgiven by God, you must first freely confess your sins-not confess because you got caught Secondly, when you lie to/deceive others (whether that's one person or the public), the public says you have to confess your sins to them as well, humble yourself (be unflinchingly honest about your sin, why you did it, and how it harmed those other people), and ask their forgiveness (because you harmed another person who is made in the image of God, as well as falling short of God's nature). They're required to forgive you because Jesus dies for their sins just as he died for yours. But it's completely up to the other person if they want to restore you to relationship-they're not required by God to restore you back to the same relationship level. None of us should assume that any of the Duggars are forgiven just because they say they're Christians. We don't actually know them personally or what goes on in their heart of hearts. Josh was a perfect example to all those who thought he was such a good Christian.
Delete5:32 Wow. How do you know all the rules/requirements for forgiveness? Sounds exhausting.
Delete5:32 PM - That's half true. You should always confess and pay for the crime, however, depending on the sin --- that is between you and God. I noticed certain strict pentecostal churches that make women wear dresses and men wear suits and mormon churches believe in confessing your sins out loud. They literally make you stand in front of the churches and do that. I never read anywhere in the bible that says you are suppose to do that. I also think it's wrong with catholics that go to confession. You go to God, not someone else. To many churches play God.
Delete5:32, All my years of church and I've never heard that I'm "required" to forgive someone. You and I must go to different churches. Forgiveness between people is completely optional and certainly not automatic.
DeleteWow, I would not want to belong to a church that REQUIRES you to forgive someone. That sounds super controlling. Forgiveness is something you have to earn from someone else and you need to prove you're worthy of it. Jesus and a cross don't bestow forgiveness to you without you giving up something in return (your sinful ways). Without that, it's a recipe for a repeat performance of whatever you did in the first place.
DeleteYou put into words my exact beliefs and feelings. Let us all join together as Christians praying for this family. Please please continue with your blogs; I so enjoy seeing all the good the Duggar's are doing. Thank you for your time and effort in bringing us joy and real life with your updates. Thank you!
ReplyDeleteI've been following the Duggar family since the start of their first show, and they have become like family. I'm so glad you have decided to continue the blog, as I know we get factual information about the family. We should not condemn an entire family for one whose choices in life have not been in keeping with Jesus and His teachings. Prayers for the entire family, especially Anna, as they go through this painful time. Again, thank you for continuing the blog.
ReplyDeleteLily and Ellie, in your post you said no one is imperfect. But, if we're Christians we are perfect in Christ!
ReplyDeleteThank You. Please DO continue with the blog. It is the ONLY intelligent, and truthful source of "Dugger Family" news....other then the girls who have SM presence.
ReplyDeleteVery well written, Ellie and Lily! :)
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you've decided to continue the blog. The outcome of Josh's trial though sad has broken the status quo that JB and Michelle had tried so hard to maintain. It may be the catalyst the young adults in the family needed to forge their own paths in life without being dependent on their parents or the TV show income. Should be interesting to see what happens next.
ReplyDeleteVery well said, I hope you continue with this blog. I have followed this family since 14 KIDS AND PREGNANT AGAIN aired. It has been an encouragement to me and a joy to see those children grow up. I have not always agreed with them on some things, but as you stated, they are just human, as we all are. I am so lucky my soul is in the hands of the perfect God and I pray for all of them.
ReplyDeleteVery well said. And needed. So many (Christians too!) fight the tendency to lose faith or question the Word when one falls. But here opportunity abounds. We are never more like Christ when we forgive. And forgiveness does not require the other party's repentance. We also, when we trust in Christ, broken humans as we are, can be amazed even more by the incredible grace of God as He works through tragic situations and our own stumbling and falling short to show His glory in incredible ways. May this be true for Josh and his family. God's mercy is boundless.
ReplyDeleteIt wasn't child pornography, it was Child Sexual Abuse Material. There is an important difference. They weren't actors, consenting and getting paid, they were children, being sexually abused for pleasure. It can't be downplayed.
ReplyDeleteChild pornography is the term used in the statute. It doesn't make sense to call it something he wasn't charged or convicted of possessing.
DeleteThey are not downplaying it, it is under the same category. Plus for some reason they didn't add one of the charges to his sentence unless something changes.
DeleteYou have maintained a well run blog. I applaud your hard work! Please do keep going for many people appreciate what the Duggar family have tried to do and your coverage of their lives has been a service via loving intention. Thank you for your hard work, your integrity and your patience. You have been very kind.
ReplyDeleteGlad you are continuing the blog for the time being, Lily and Ellie. I appreciate you keeping us updated through this horrible situation and posting about the other Duggars. Look forward to following the activities of the rest of the family and reading this blog, however long you continue to post. :)
ReplyDeleteExcellent post and gorsure the whole family was not a part of this. We need to pray and uphold his wife and children and extended family. I'm interested in the family and love to hear about all the new additions, weddings etc.
ReplyDeletePlease continue to post, we love the Duggar family and your post remind me to pray for them all. Your statement was spot on and the Lord knows your heart and His opinion is the only one that matters. Keep pressing on, you guys are doing great!
ReplyDeleteThank you for your blog--I love reading about the Duggar family. :-) they have been such an inspiration to so many. Praying for all of the family-that they can begin to heal :-)
ReplyDeletePlease do continue with your blog,its positive and uplifting. best wishes Christie
ReplyDeleteLove your response. I follow Christ not people. Well said!
ReplyDeleteThat was truly a statement led by the Holy Spirit! I love how you have a strong relationship with the Lord! It is encouraging! I'm so thankful for you running this blog and how you only post what is true about the duggers! Keep up the great work!
ReplyDeleteI have followed this family closely since the beginning of their first show, and I also followed Josh's trial. I find them interesting and I like several of the family members, so would like to see the blog continue. I do, however, have no trouble seeing where they have fallen short and when it goes beyond the usual human faults we all share, I want to have it in the open and discussed--without the Christians having a fit and reminding us that if we can't say anything nice, say nothing at all. That is immature and avoiding reality. Truth is not always "nice".
ReplyDeleteI agree with you 100%. Truth isn't always nice and exposing it should be ok.
DeleteVery well said. I agree with you 100%. So happy you will continue this blog.
ReplyDeleteThank you for this statement. We are glad that you are keeping this blog. We look forward to following the entire Duggar family. God Bless.
ReplyDeleteJoan,Marion and Marilyn
Well said.
ReplyDeleteThank you Lily and Ellie for this post and thank you for reminding us who are followers of Christ that our faith is to be in Christ alone not in people.
ReplyDeleteplease continue the blog especially with Jed and Katey baby due in April
ReplyDeleteI also believe we need to pray for Josh. He also needs healing only God can give him!
ReplyDeleteYes -- only Jesus can heal Josh's depravity. Thanks for that reminder to pray for him.
DeleteYes,we should be praying for Josh, but it is not God's responsibility to "turn" or save Josh. Josh has known the way from early childhood. It is Josh's responsibility and choice.
Delete10:05: Wait a minute. Isn’t it Jesus’ JOB to save people?!
DeleteThank you ladies. I do enjoy this blog, and I don't blame you for not posting everything. Will pray for discernment on what you should and shouldn't post from here on out. I will continue to read until there's nothing left to read.
ReplyDeleteI would love for the blog to continue. I appreciate all that you have done. And I think your statement is well said.
ReplyDeleteGod bless you and your family especially Anna and her church
ReplyDeleteMy understanding of Christianity is that Jesus died on the cross for sinners and before he did that he pointed out that he’d come for the unrighteous and he wanted people to be aware of their sinfulness and unworthiness and need of a saviour. Behold the lab of God who takes away the sin of the world!
ReplyDeleteMeant lamb not lab Jesus isn’t a service animal he’s our saviour!
DeleteI think he just misspelled Lamb of God.
DeleteExcept when the system contributes to this, like it does with the iblp, then yes, the entire system needs examined, and we know it is flawed.
ReplyDeleteGiven that child pornography started when the camera was invented and that prior to Josh no man or woman guilty of this crime had anything to do with IBLP, there is no need for IBLP to be declared a flawed system that has to be examined.
Delete@Alberta Rose I guess you don't know about the IBLP's history. It's well documented.
DeleteNice statement.
ReplyDeleteI appreciate the statement and am glad that you will continue the blog. Our hope should always be in Christ and not in humans. May God bless and help all of the victims of CSAM.
ReplyDeleteYou find the Duggar mission and values encouraging. Like Jim Bob having elective amnesia at the trial?
ReplyDeleteI am sure they are talking about the siblings (except Josh).
Delete7:13 Jim Bob established the values and mission for the Duggar family.
DeleteYes!!!! Please continue there are those of us who love the Duggars no matter what🙏 I am a born again Christian my faith and my life are in His hands🙏 the concept that the Duggars are perfect people and perfect parents because they have boldly stated their faith is a World View concept🙏 We as believers KNOW we are not perfect in anyway🙏 Please keep us posted on the Duggars y'all are loved and prayed for🔥🙏🔥
ReplyDeleteI don't find the Duggars particularly "encouraging" in the present day. IMO when the parents can't let go of the apron strings it's not a good thing. Perhaps this ordeal with foster some changes in the family dynamic and they'll stop trying to function as a single "unit" under the parental umbrella. It will be interesting to see what happens next.
ReplyDeletePlease clarify apron strings. They go and free to do what they want apparently. Jana can travel and stay with her sisters for a visit. The boys can move out. I am sure the girls can too. I hate when people leave comments like this and not explain how they know this.
DeleteI so agree! The Duggars especially JB and Michelle want us to believe they did the right thing when Josh molested his sisters. We can all make mistakes even the most faithful of believers, it's how we respond when our mistakes are exposed that matters.
DeleteKeep your blog it's honest and kind. Many people aren't that way. Ignore the Snarkers.
ReplyDeleteI like this blog. Thanks for continuing to post.
ReplyDeleteYes, please continue! You are our only outlet really except for YouTube on finding out how some of the family members are doing! Feel so sad for them! We loved their show, loved the weddings, loved the babies being born, loved watching the little ones grow up all with their love for the Lord Jesus Christ and for each other. Sadly pornography of every sort has permeated this world. We all have our decisions to make in life. What we choose to do or choose not do is our decision. It’s still hard to believe that Josh made such a evil choice. Still want to believe the best of him and that he was set up but I’m guessing that he did this. Regardless that doesn’t mean everyone should be punished. Thank you both so much for letting us know about their special family and yes please continue!❤️❣️Thank you!
ReplyDeletePlease continue your blog. I will be praying for the Duggar family, and for Josh to truly be repentant and turn to God.
ReplyDeleteDear Lily and Ellie. Thank you so much for taking the time to address this important issue. It cannot have been easy and it is obvious you have prayed about this and feel comfortable with your decision to continue for the time being. I, for one, am interested (in part) as to what some of the Duggars continue to do. However, that being said, I would be most grateful if you would not post any updates or information on Jim Bob Duggar, who was obviously less than transparent during his time on the witness stand, and has managed events questionably and, to be perfectly frank, appearing less than honest in events associated with this trial and events leading up to this - for many years now. He, along with others, have papered over the truth and hurt many people in the process. Yours in God's Grace.
ReplyDeleteTotally agree
DeleteI really enjoy your blog. My hear goes out to all the children. I agree with the above regarding Jim Bob. I would also like to recommend that Josh be removed from the banner. Seeing him makes me think of really horrible tragic things.
DeleteEveryone goes through seasons in life, some good and some not so good. We need to remember that Josh is responsible for his actions as an adult, the rest of the family should not be blamed. My prayers go out to the family in this difficult time. I experienced the isolation and judgment that comes when your husband molest his stepdaughter but no one knew. It is a horrible experience to be judged for something you had no knowledge was going on. Maybe we all need to show a little compassion to the family instead if beating them down. Only God should judge.
ReplyDelete6:37 Why shouldn't the parents have any blame? Josh had problems while still a minor, living in their home. They knew too, because he told them!
DeleteThank you, Lily and Ellie!!! Totally agree that you should keep the blog going, and that the actions of one do not negate the faith, or the happiness and encouragement that the rest of the family bring to those of us who love them. I pray for Anna and her children, for Jim Bob and Michelle, and also for Josh. Thank you again for deciding to continue.
ReplyDeleteThank you for this statement and continuing to want to follow the family as a whole. They overall are a great family. Everyone has troubles, and turning our back is not what God wants. We need to support them and uplift them more so they continue to trust God through this really bad time. I pray for Anna and her kids daily...as well as the rest of the family! They need that more than ever. I appreciate your honesty and your dedication to this family and the Bates.
ReplyDeleteI appreciate your statement. I hope you can continue this blog. Many of us have followed the Duggars from the beginning & would like to know of future weddings & babies.
ReplyDeleteWell stated. Yes, please continue the blog. The Duggars and you as ambassadors of Christ get to demonstrate the ministry of reconciliation and the gospel of repentance and forgiveness. No reason to bail now.
ReplyDeleteWhat happened should not be used to try to glorify God or anyone's religious beliefs. Don't frame it like that. Call it what it is, crimes, two of which finally brought a conviction.
ReplyDeleteThat's not what they are doing, I am not sure how you twisted that. You barely read their statement.
DeleteThe crimes for sure do not glorify God. But the bloggers are certainly allowed to glorify God by what they said - our trust is in Christ alone. That's powerful and has nothing to do with the crimes.
DeleteI'm all for not attacking everyone in the family, but why put them on a pedestal either? Just because they are "Christians"? They put themselves on a public stage to make money and they can never escape the scutiny that comes with that. At least Jim Bob got rich, so maybe it was worth it.
ReplyDeleteAgreed OP. They put themselves on a public stage knowing that their son was having problems, too.
DeleteI agree. As time went by I came to the conclusion they were just on TV for the money. Sad as it made their "Christianity" appear fake.
DeleteThey was on TV because they was a unique big family. Now there's multiple shows of big families whom all are each different.
DeleteThey was put on a pedestal because they was a large family, not because of their Christianity. And it's not fair that the siblings can't escape people like you that are innocent and some even victims in the situation the parents put them in and so what if they stay online. That's their choice and they are doing it the way they want too without their parents.
DeleteI don't agree. If you look through the comments on this page, for example, there are many references (and praise) for them being good Christians. Their followers/fans tend to be mostly Christians too. I don't care if they are social media or not either, but I think the OP is saying that they are going to be scrutinized for that because that is the consequences for going public.
Delete4:21 There is no denying that having a TV show brought this family from poverty to wealth. I am not defending their choice, but I do think that they were somewhat naive about the consequences of that choice. There is no going back now.
Delete12:18 They was not in poverty before the show. Jim Bob was in real estate and they saved money non-stop buying used.
DeleteThank you for your statement. However, it appears most of the Duggar offspring are going on with their lives WITHOUT sharing on social media I'm not sure where this blog is going.
ReplyDeleteThank you for this very thoughtfully worded statement.
ReplyDeleteNo pedestal in this post, but the family HAS traditionally stood for values like a strong emphasis on family that some of us appreciate. Doesn't mean we think they are perfect. It's just refreshing to hear someone in a public forum holding those values up when the majority of voices don't. This blog has never been into Duggar worship.
ReplyDeleteThis was very well said.
ReplyDeleteWe can not blame a religion for the actions of one person. But there should be more reflection on how this person is a product of his upbringing, religion and social interactions. Jim Bob and Michelle should take a look at their role in this.
ReplyDeleteMy understanding is that is a mental illness, and it can not be created by environment. I think parents should have noticed it, provided treatment for it, and they tried by going to their church for help! That was for their 14 year old son. Who then seemed to be ok, got married, had kids, got a job... What an independent, well-traveled adult, with family and several children, was doing at 30 it is on him!
DeleteAll other Jim Bob and Michelle's children are great, responsible adults, working, and smaller ones are also helping the family.
2:29, I agree. Whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. Galatians 6.
DeleteDear Grace: I hope that you are having a fantastic 2nd Birthday!!!!!
ReplyDeleteWho is Grace, and more importantly, why is he/she mentioned in this particular topic?
Delete2:50 Is this a passive-aggressive way of letting the blog owners know that they missed something?
DeleteGrace is John-David & Abbie's daughter.
DeleteAnd why are these off-topic comments even posted?
DeleteThis is Anonymous 2:50pm, and I made this post not to send a passive-aggressive message, but to simply share in the joy that is a two-year old's birthday.
DeleteWith the parents "keeping their secret" and going on TV, they did not glorify God. Shame on them.
ReplyDelete@3:37 That has been a glaring issue.
DeleteThey felt their "mission" to be on TV was more important than anything.
DeleteI just want Lily and Ellie to know that I am also saying please keep the blog going. I follow both the Duggar and the Bates Family blogs and am interested in keeping up with both families. My opinion on the Duggar family has not changed, though my opinion on Josh certainly has. Please continue to keep giving us more info and photos of the lives of the Duggars. I do appreciate all the hard work and long hours the two of you put into this. Thank you very much!
ReplyDeleteCould you please remove te picture of Josh from the top of your page? It is very hurtfull for victims. We don't want to see him but focus on the rest of the family abd Anna.
ReplyDeleteI think he should stay there as a reminder of what happens when you disgrace yourself and commit criminal activities. A reminder of what you lose.
Delete3:40 I agree. Also, Josh is still a part of the family. Even though he was convicted, he is Jim Bob's and Michelle's son. He is also a brother and father to the seven grandduggars.
DeleteI hope to continue to hear how the adult children are doing and about the milestones in their lives. I am still aware that there are some aspects of their family of origin lifestyle/beliefs that are questionable. You can like them and be interested in them, and at the same see that not everything is admirable, praiseworthy, or healthy.
ReplyDeleteIt’s an interesting family. I like reading about them.
ReplyDeletePlease continue the blog. Thank you for your statement about Josh. Many people, even Christians, have had rebellious children, or children who, as adults, do unthinkable things. Josh and Anna are Duggars and should remain on the banner header for your blog. Time will pass and it will be interesting to read about all the events in the Duggar's lives. Those who are interested can read, and those who are not can choose to read other things. Thank you for continuing.
ReplyDeleteI have so many mixed emotions after the events that have occurred and after your blog post. Let me first say that I am thankful and grateful for all the work you, Lily and Ellie, have put in this blog. I never realised how many hours it has taken to create this site. Thankyou.
ReplyDeleteI have felt deceived and duped by Michelle and Jim Bob. I feel they have covered up, enabled and chosen Josh over their daughters who are his victims. It is very disturbing, heart breaking and damaging for those girls, now young women and mothers themselves to have been put through the testimony regarding the molestation by their brother. Details that I believe they were not aware of until the trial. I feel Jim Bob and Michelle have turned their backs on their own principles and values and moral compasses. Jim Bob clearly lied on the stand, all to protect a sinner who will not admit to his sins, and at the expense of the innocent victims and there are many many victims. I am angry with the Duggar parents for their conduct since Josh was a young teen, I hurt for the sisters, and now for the innocent children. I am not interested in the Duggar parents’ lives. I am interested in the young adults as they navigate life, marriage, parenthood, etc. That is what I would come to this site to read about in the future. I also feel Anna has been blind to the realities of the situation and the damages that have been wrought on her children. More innocent victims. Eileen
The 4 older Duggar daughters who are involved in the lawsuit should sue their parents not innocent people who were just doing their job.
ReplyDeleteI love the Duggar family and your blog about them. I agree with your thoughts on this subject completely. Josh's terrible choices and behavior represent the opposite of what this family stands for and I know their hearts are broken by it. I hope you will continue your blog about the other 18 kids and their growing families whom we still love, are interested in and are praying for!
ReplyDelete