In the following two chapters, the Rebbe Rashab suspends his discussion of yeshus, and introduces two positive approaches to avodah. In ch. 12, he discusses Divine service motivated by joy. Meditating on the greatness of G‑d, and the wondrous expression of that greatness by His creation yesh mei’ayin — bringing the universe into existence from absolute nothingness — motivates one to rejoice in his Creator. Alternatively, one can evoke joy in his Divine service by contemplating G‑d’s essential greatness — how at the same time He utterly transcends all existence.
In ch. 13, the Rebbe Rashab focuses on Divine service characterized by one’s humility and anguish at his lowly spiritual state. The key to such service is being “a master of accounts,” making a careful reckoning of one’s actions and the motives behind them. When doing so, one comes to realize that his service is lacking, not only in in an absolute sense, i.e., relating to the level of Divine service that he ought to render, but also in relative terms. Even when accounting for any mortal’s innate frailties and imperfection, a person can see how his own efforts are inadequate. This realization evokes humility and anguish.
