Despite grief brought by Josh, Duggar couple greets son Josiah a happy birthday

Josiah Duggar receives a heartfelt birthday greeting from his mom Michelle amid the trouble caused by his elder brother Josh. (Facebook/Duggar Family Official)

Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar from the cancelled TLC show "19 Kids and Counting" are undoubtedly heartbroken over the actions taken by their eldest son Josh, who admittedly cheated on his wife Anna and previously molested several underage girls, including his sisters. However, they remain brimming with pride and love for their other children.

For Josiah's birthday, Michelle posted a throwback photo of Josiah on their Facebook page and wrote the sweetest greeting: "Today is our Josiah's birthday. Josiah is creative and a hard worker. We are especially pleased with the wonderful young man he's become. Happy, happy birthday, Josiah!"

A few hours later, Michelle decided to add a few more words of love and encouragement to the family's birthday greeting for Josiah. "I've thought all day about our Josiah and wanted to add a few thoughts to the family post we put up for his birthday this morning," she said. "HAPPY BIRTHDAY JOSIAH! We love you so much! You are an encourager and can brighten up any room you walk into. You have made a big impact in all of our lives. Your love for God, humility, diligence, selflessness, giving spirit, and so much more has challenged us in our relationship with the Lord! We are so blessed to have you in our family!"

Earlier this year, Josiah entered into a courtship relationship with Marjorie Jackson, much to the delight of his parents, since Marjorie is a talented Christian girl who has written her own book and can speak several languages.

But after a few months of courtship, it seemed like Josiah and Marjorie came to the conclusion that they are not well suited for one another.

"We are so grateful that they are seeking the Lord's will for their future. A few weeks ago Marjorie and Josiah agreed to end their courtship, keeping in step with what they believe the Lord's will is. Both are thankful for the time getting to know each other, and their families continue to enjoy each other's company and close friendship," Josiah's parents said in a statement.

related articles
Duggar family give Josiah and Marjorie their blessing as they enjoy new courtship
Duggar family give Josiah and Marjorie their blessing as they enjoy new courtship

Duggar family give Josiah and Marjorie their blessing as they enjoy new courtship

What the Duggar and Jackson parents think of Josiah and Marjorie\'s courtship
What the Duggar and Jackson parents think of Josiah and Marjorie's courtship

What the Duggar and Jackson parents think of Josiah and Marjorie's courtship

Josiah Duggar gets some courtship advice from elder brother Josh
Josiah Duggar gets some courtship advice from elder brother Josh

Josiah Duggar gets some courtship advice from elder brother Josh

Josiah Duggar and Marjorie Jackson enjoying courtship; sing 'How deep the Father's love for us' together

Josiah Duggar and Marjorie Jackson enjoying courtship; sing 'How deep the Father's love for us' together

Josiah Duggar and Marjorie are \'doing so well\' in their courtship
Josiah Duggar and Marjorie are 'doing so well' in their courtship

Josiah Duggar and Marjorie are 'doing so well' in their courtship

Josiah Duggar and Marjorie Jackson decide  to end their courtship, which began April 6
Josiah Duggar and Marjorie Jackson decide to end their courtship, which began April 6

Josiah Duggar and Marjorie Jackson decide to end their courtship, which began April 6

News
Marriage is the safest relationship, latest figures suggest
Marriage is the safest relationship, latest figures suggest

Of the eight children murdered during lockdown, 7 were killed thanks to the actions of a step parent or new partner.

Abortion rises in Northern Ireland for fifth year running
Abortion rises in Northern Ireland for fifth year running

Abortion was legalised in Northern Ireland in 2019.

Churches helping millions of Brits get by as living costs remain high
Churches helping millions of Brits get by as living costs remain high

Across the country, people are looking to the church for help.

Isaiah 41:10 is YouVersion's Bible verse of the year
Isaiah 41:10 is YouVersion's Bible verse of the year

Isaiah 41:10 had the highest international engagement on YouVersion during 2025, while in the UK it was Jeremiah 29:11 that topped the list.