In these two verses are the classic dilemma of all religion. The Lord is the only true source of our knowledge, but to most he "maketh no such thing known unto us." We have not spoken with him. He has not given it to us. He didn't come to me and tell me any such thing. The lack of spiritual initiative on the part of the child is imputed to the fault of the father. Neither Laman and Lemuel nor we are willing to place the blame on ourselves. It is the Lord who does not speak to us, so of course we do not speak to him.
How absolutely ironic for Nephi to hear right after his experience with the Spirit!