Inquiring of the Lord

Earlier in chapter 15, Nephi asks his brothers if they've inquired of the Lord to gain an understanding of the words of their father. Nephi testifies to them that if you ask in faith, truly believing that you will receive, and if you are keeping the commandments, He will answer you (see verse 8). I know that this is true. Here is a quote from President Packer on the subject from the Book of Mormon Institute Manual:

Elder Boyd K. Packer taught that everyone may receive spiritual guidance in the same way as an Apostle if they will diligently seek the Lord, ask with faith, and obey his commandments:
“You can learn now, in your youth, to be led by the Holy Ghost.
“As an Apostle I listen now to the same inspiration, coming from the same source, in the same way, that I listened to as a boy. The signal is much clearer now. . . .
“No message is repeated more times in scripture than the simple thought: ‘Ask, and ye shall receive’ (D&C 4:7).
“I often ask the Lord for direction from Him. I will not, however, willingly accept promptings from any unworthy source. I refuse them. I do not want them, and I say so.
“Young people, carry a prayer in your heart always. Let sleep come every night with your mind centered in prayer.
“Keep the Word of Wisdom.
“Read the scriptures.
“Listen to your parents and to the leaders of the Church.
“Stay away from places and things that common sense tells you will interfere with inspiration.
“Develop your spiritual capacities.
“Learn to tune out the static and the interference.
“Avoid the substitutes and the counterfeits!
“Learn to be inspired and directed by the Holy Ghost” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1979, p. 30; or Ensign, Nov. 1979, p. 21).