Persecuted For Righteousness

Matthew 5:10-12 

10  "Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

11  "Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account.  12  Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

ESV

 Doing the right thing does not always result in the praise of those around you, though it is what God expects.  Often going with the flow or ignoring something is the preferred mode of action.  This can be our own attitude or of others.  Doing otherwise can bring ridicule or loss. 

For those who walk in the way of the Lord and witness to that fact, despite what others might think, do, or say, will find their true reward.  Their praise comes from God.  This is the praise that counts.  Their footsteps already fall in the kingdom of heaven.  

Only in a fallen world is it possible for one to be persecuted for following after God. 

Darkness hates the light.