Most people approach the subject of persecution from a very negative standpoint but persecution is not a negative subject. Jesus said you are blessed when persecuted for righteousness sake. He said, "Rejoice for your reward is great".
This book lists 4 reasons for persecution:
-Righteousness sake
-Pride of the persecutor
-Jealousy of the persecutor
-Religious spirits
Positive ways to overcome are given along with scriptural reference to Jesus' teaching on the subject.