Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.

Matthew 5:11-12 (KJV)

And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; 4and patience, experience; and experience, hope: 5and hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.

Romans 5:3 (KJV)

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. 

Romans 5:22-23 (KJV)

As Christ’s own flame, a fervent heart aflame,
A target gleams upon our backs, so stark—
From lost souls blind, from nominals who claim,
Yet ape the world in dress and worldly mark.
Wolves prowl near, in wool their fangs disguise,
While haters scorn our Savior’s precious name—
May every dart, each stone, each hateful guise,
Stoke passion fierce for Christ, our endless flame!

Let slander’s sting, persecution’s roar,
Become our badge, a holy honor worn,
Each lie a seed, blessed beneath the core,
That blooms to gold, where Spirit’s fruit is born!
Thorns prick here, and tears may carve their stream,
Yet Heaven turns them crowns of radiant glee—
We stand unbowed, in Jesus’ light supreme,
Rejoicing still, till face to face we see!