Persecuted But Not Crushed

I have experienced being laughed at by my friends because I'm different. We used to do things together, we drank alcohol, stroll around the town until dawn, and got acquainted with bad people. I was a professing Christian then. they knew my faith but I was like them, I conformed. I was not different, my integrity was ruined, I was talked about negatively.
One time, I was away from my friends because I had to pursue my studies in a Bible school. God had led me to BTC for His great purpose though I thought I was not sure with my decision of coming here yet. I finished my freshman year and went back to my hometown. I did not notice any change in me but I became uninterested with alcohol. I chose not to drink and stroll around for long hours. I liked it more when I stay at home.
They told me I'm different. they started calling me a pastor, a nun, holy one, and other religious-related teases. At first I was hurt because I did not like to be called that way. But they kept on blatantly telling me those labels to my face. I just kept silent. Then I realized, maybe I am now living differently, really. They saw the light in me that I am truly different from them. I should not feel bad about it but feel happy that I am living my faith out. This can be an instrument for them to know and get curious with what I believe in. they are actually asking some questions and thank God I was able to answer them. I just pray that they will continue to see the light in me and I will be able to really talk to them about Jesus, that they will not divert the topic just like what they usually do.