It looks like a happy ending is still far from happening in the Duggar household. In a recent social media update courtesy of the "19 Kids and Counting" family, it was revealed that Josiah Duggar, 18, and Marjorie Jackson, 17, have both decided to put an end to their courtship.
"Many of you have asked us about Josiah and Marjorie," Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar wrote in the "19 Kids and Counting" clan's Facebook page. The Duggar heads further wrote, "Both Josiah and Marjorie have enjoyed getting to know each other and to build their friendship over the past months." It could be recalled that the previous months saw the growing closeness of Josiah and Marjorie - with the former even receiving relationship advice from older brother Josh Duggar who in turn related his own love story with his now wife, Anna Duggar.
Jim Bob and Michelle went on to say, "We are so grateful that they each are seeking the Lord's will for their future." The two added, "A few weeks ago Marjorie and Josiah agreed to end their courtship, keeping in step with what they believe the Lord's will is." This announcement marks the fourth month of Josiah and Marjorie's courtship period which started on April 6 - an event that had fans and followers of the "19 Kids and Counting" clan excited as the Duggar family members are typically known to marry once they believe that the right one has come along. These expectations are not unfounded, however, as Jill Duggar married Derick Dillard months following their first meeting and courtship. Jessa Duggar and Ben Seewald followed suit - with the latter earning the seal of approval from Jim Bob early on.
"Both are thankful for the time getting to know each other, and their families continue to enjoy each other's company and close friendship," Jim Bob and Michelle continued to write. The duo added, "As parents we are very pleased to see two young people searching out their futures with God's will as their first priority!"
Prior to this announcement, the Duggar family members have been quite excited over the news of Josiah's courtship with Marjorie. In fact, Josh Duggar himself has stepped up as an older brother and offered his guidance to the young courting Duggar. Telling Josiah then that the distance between him and Anna Duggar made it easier for them to maintain their virtue, Josh Duggar encouraged the younger Duggar to be more creative in terms of wooing Marjorie. "I think each person has a different structure," Josh Duggar shared, referring to the difference in their courting scenarios. He teasingly added, "I had all my good looks on my side. I'm not sure what you've got."