Arminians seem to think God only interacts after the fact. God as First-Responder.
I think a better perspective is to begin by accepting God's predestining will for all our lives, and then to see everything in light of this truth. If we possess Trinitarian faith in Jesus Christ, then we are assured everything, good and not-so-good, is for our benefit and will bring glory to Him who loves us.
"And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead. And he laid his right hand upon me, saying unto me, FEAR NOT; I am the first and the last: I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen" -- Revelation 1:17-18"After these things the word of the LORD came unto Abram in a vision, saying, FEAR NOT, Abram: I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward." -- Genesis 15:1
All these months of discussions on Predestination have strengthened my belief in God's active and total control of His creation.
Anything less demotes God to a member of the audience, rather than the writer/producer/director -- in that order. He thought it; He did it; He continues to do it. All for His glory.
ME TOO! :) Thank you both so much for all of your help!