What I Have Learned From The Josh Duggar Scandals

A few weeks ago, I was stunned to read online that Josh Duggar was once again in scandalous trouble. And this time it was not for his actions when he was a young teenager, but instead for shocking, unfaithful marital behavior in which he had been involved in currently.

Throughout the day, I continued to receive texts from my friends that said things such as, “Have you seen it?” “I’m so sad for the Duggars,” and I can’t believe what’s happening to the Duggars.” My friends were texting me about this famous family because they know that I have been one of their biggest fans.

I started admiring this family several years ago when we watched a documentary about their super-sized family and conservative beliefs. Soon after, I bought their book and was again impressed with their willingness to obey what they felt was God’s will for all parts of their lives. As a new mom, I especially paid attention to the chapters about how to train children; after all, their children seemed so respectful and obedient. As our children grew, we posted a “Character Qualities To Live By Chart” that the Duggars gave out on their website and began teaching these qualities to our children. And last year, when the Duggar family spoke at an event in our state, we drove over two hours to listen to them and meet them in person.

See what I mean about being their biggest fan?

But during the last few months, while this family has been in turmoil, I have been surprised by how sad it has made me. I literally have thought about them so much with feelings of shock and heavy discouragement. Through some introspection, I have been reminded of some important truths.

1. I need to look to Jesus, not to people, as my model. I actually have thought many times as my children are being loud or disobedient, “What would Michelle Duggar do in this situation?” or “If the Duggars can handle nineteen kids, than I can handle mine.” But, Hebrews 12:2 says not to look to people for our example but rather to Jesus, “the author and finisher of our faith.” I was reminded that when I look to him to be my example, I will never be disappointed.

2. No one is perfect. The Duggars have said many times in the past that they AREN’T perfect people, but truthfully, I had a hard time believing them. I mean, those kids were just so darn wonderful. And Michelle is so calm and sweet. But the Bible says in Romans 3:23 says that “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Every single one of us must struggle with sin.

3. I actually feel a little relieved. If the Duggars have tried so hard to be godly parents and their family is still not immune to this kind of trouble, well, then, I’m kind of off the hook. Don’t get me wrong; I will try with God’s help to be the best mom that I can be to my kids. I aim to teach them God’s word and live our his ways before them. And I will pray that each of them will surrender their lives to him and receive his salvation. But I have always known that there is no guarantee that my kids will follow God’s ways in their life. The current Josh Duggar situation has been a good reminder of this for me.

And in closing, I want to share with you that I am praying for the Duggars. I am praying for repentance, hope, and restoration. There is hope for them, because there is absolutely no limit to the grace and forgiveness of Jesus Christ.

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Articles by Annie Boyd

Annie Boyd

Annie Boyd was raised on a farm in Iowa. She graduated from The University of Northwestern in St. Paul with a degree in elementary education. She is married to her high school sweetheart, and they have five children. She loves being a stay-at-home mom and homeschooling her kids. She blogs with her family over at http://www.theginghamapron.com/

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