Romans 13:4-6

Expanded Bible

⁴ The ruler is God’s servant ·to help you [for your good]. But if you do wrong, then be afraid. ·He has the power to punish [^LFor he does not bear the sword in vain]; he is God’s servant ·to punish [an avenger for (God’s) wrath to] those who do wrong. ⁵ So you must ·yield [submit; be subject] to the government, not only because ·you might be punished [^Lof wrath], but because ·you know it is right [of (your) conscience].

⁶ This is also why you pay taxes. [^LBecause] Rulers are ·working for God [God’s servants/ministers] ·and give their time to [devoting themselves to] their work.