A symbiotic relationship is described as a close and often long-term interaction between different species. These relationships can be mutualistic (both benefit), commensalistic (one benefits, the other is unaffected), or parasitic (one benefits, the other is harmed).
A mutualistic would be like bees collecting nectar from flowers, providing food for themselves, and in the process, they spread pollen between flowers, aiding in their reproduction.
A commensalistic would be like cattle egrets and cattle. Cattle egrets follow cattle to feed on insects disturbed by the cattle, while the cattle are generally not impacted
A parasitic would be ticks feed on the blood of dogs, causing them to become itchy, irritated, or potentially sick.
A relationship with Jesus can be a symbiotic relationship. It can actually be mutualistic or commensalistic. Mutualistic if we live for God and bring honor to His name. Plus try to get others to live for Him. Commensalistic if we only half hearted serve Him for the benefits it brings.
The enemy wants a parasitic relationship with you. A relationship where he sucks the life out of you and doesn’t benefit you any. He may try to sell the old lie that you are free. But just like the stray dog that is free to roam wherever it wants, it also doesn’t have anyone to bathe it and remove any parasites it may get.
Let’s strive to have a mutualistic relationship with Jesus, bringing Him joy and ourselves too as we willing serve Him.
Romans 6:23 KJV For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.