Enter Wild: Exchange a Mild and Mundane Faith for Life with an Uncontainable God

by Carlos Whittaker

Break free from a safe (and boring) faith to truly live the abundant life with all the wonder Jesus promised in John 10:10.

You are meant to receive the abundance God promises here and now. You are not meant to wait until heaven to experience His best. Even in the midst of our broken world's traumas and trials, you can

- learn to lower the volume of life and truly hear God
- experience what it means to speak God's Word over yourself for real victory
- discover how to pray His promises instead of praying over the problems

With his trademark blend of humor and transparency, gifted storyteller Carlos Whittaker shares his personal struggle in coping with crippling anxiety--and how the key to his freedom was rediscovering a wild faith. That key can be yours, helping you open the door to leave mild and enter wild.

Genres: Christian, Faith, Nonfiction, Christian Living, Spirituality, Audiobook

208 pages, Paperback

Published June 16, 2020

About the author

Carlos Whittaker is a best-selling author and expert storyteller to all kinds of audiences– from parents to corporate America to the non-profit sector. No matter who you are, his message is for you.

Carlos uses his vast and varied personal life experience to captivate and engage audiences in ways that few else can.

In his books, How to Human, Enter Wild, Moment Maker, and Kill the Spider, Carlos reminds us that when we are connected to God and good to ourselves, we can be even better for others. Humans do not exist in a vacuum, so when we address every facet of our lives, we create a greater capacity for relationships, ministry, work, creativity, and patience.

Carlos excels at encouraging people to to show up for their neighbor, regardless of who they are and what they believe. Join Carlos and countless others in the pursuit of being human together.

He and his wife Heather live in Nashville, Tennessee, with their three amazing children, where you can find them working on the family farm, planning trips around the world, and preparing to be empty-nesters.

Reviews

[Rebecca Tredway · Rating 3 out of 5]

Carlos Whittaker is an extremely likable guy who was blogging and building his family when I was, back in the heyday of blogs. I recently rediscovered him on Instagram and have hugely appreciated his conversations about being black in America. He's a Christian, a worship leader-turned-author/speaker, and a bio and adopted dad. I appreciate his perspective.

This book reminds me of my childhood when I was attending EFree and Baptist churches, before the theological underpinnings of reformed theology gave me a firmer ground to stand on ("firmer" is obviously my perspective and not everyone's). I appreciated reading Whittaker's book as a 40-something so I could more easily put my finger on the ways he and I agreed and disagreed, even as siblings in the faith.

In hindsight, I wish this book was straight-up Carlos's story followed by some preaching and not an intermingling of the two. The temptation for me is to read it as a how-to, and had it been formatted differently, I think I could've read his story, embraced it, and then taken away the really good points interspersed within it's pages. But as it is, it feels too much like a how-to. Can I live a WILD life? Can I live in the fullness of Christ? I want to be set free from what holds me back! So there are prayers--Carlos's claiming Jesus' blood and freedom--but his story is not my story--and vice-versa. There is a lot of good in here, but I struggled to find all of it.

My biggest beef with the author's approach is the idea that asking and listening to the Holy Spirit's nudges should inform every. single. last. decision you make. (Should I turn left on this highway or right? Should I buy the grey socks or white? Should I stop for coffee or keep going?) We have freedom in Christ to make decisions! He's given us minds and hearts and desires and when we are "in him" then we have been set free to make choices. Where does God want me to have lunch? Nah. I mean, yes, sure, give your life to God but then TRUST that he directs your steps and has given you authority to work in his kingdom for your good and his glory. This may be a quibble, but it's one I will quibble over. Instead of always examining your internal voices--is this the Spirit talking or is it my desire for a really good steak?--simply know that you can decide and that God, in his infinite wisdom, is your loving Father who so easily orchestrates all things for his glory. And instead of asking the Spirit for which verses he wants you to read in the morning, simply work through his word. It's not that God can't give you an idea of a special verse or call to mind something super applicable, but if all scripture is "God-breathed" then know that he will speak through it as you continue to study and learn.

Okay, all done. I like Carlos the guy better than this book. But it's still a decent book.

[Emily Larson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a big fan of the way Carlos Whittaker writes! It’s as if I am sitting down on his living room couch listening to him tell a story. This story in Enter Wild is a life altering one. This book has changed the way I think about who Jesus is and how I fit in His plan of transformation. Highly recommend this book if your tired of living in the mundane, like me, and ready to live a life full of abundance!

[Leo Lozano · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Carlos way to tell a story, he is honest, funny, deep and inspiring.

I was able to identify with a lot of his struggles when it comes to walk in that WILD, I believe it’s there for us to access it but I have faced many of the same obstacles.

So it was very encouraging to read about a way to move forward, to go deeper.

I’m sure you too will enjoy the book and be encourage to trust more and go deeper like never before.

[Babs | babs_reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Carlos Whittaker is a story teller. If you’ve ever followed him on social media, then you know. He was born with a Voice, you know, the type that deserves the capital V.

God’s Word delivered through Whittaker has calmed nerves, smoothed anxiety, stifled fear and killed many spiders. Throughout following this author I’ve journeyed back and forth in the Word finding my own Voice.

The thing about Whittaker is, he doesn’t just give you Word; he also gives you tools to help you discover a deeper relationship with God on your own.

ENTER WILD provides the tools you need to discover your faith on a whole new level.

[Katt Jerrica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Carlos Whittaker is a gifted and God lead writer, with Enter Wild he has shown us again that God can do amazing powerful things. In this book Carlos has shared personal and motivating trials on how to our minds can't stop us. Delivering gut-wrenching emotion and a lot of spirit filled "Ah-HA!" moments,he shares with us what we can really do when we have #wildfaith in Jesus! Whittaker never disappoints, if you are struggling with your faith, anxiety or any mental health issues take some time and read this book, God won't disappoint you!

[Brooke J Katz · Rating 5 out of 5]

How would I discribe this book raw, honest and helpful. Carlos gets extremely honest in here about how he wrestled with anxiety I'm talking heart palpitations every single day anxiety. In this book he leads you on his journey but not just his journey he gives you opportunity to join in on finding freedom and closeness with Christ by asking yourself questions at the end of each chapter and then at the end of each section you reflect on each previous chapter and questions you answered through a guided prayer this helps not just become a book you say awe that was a nice book as you place it on the shelf nope this book you work through, you wrestle through, you gain tools and biblical wisdom from a fellow Christian friend.

[Sabrina Thurstin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advanced copy of Enter Wild and I love this book.

I have followed Carlos on social media for some time and have always loved his ability to tell a story and be relatable. When reading this book, I could literally hear Carlos' voice as I read it. When I can hear the author's voice as I'm reading a text...I know I am going to love the book even more. I related to Carlos and some of his struggles in this book and imagine you will to. It's a must read!

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Anyone who shares their spiritual experiences in an authentic way like this gets 5 stars! Carlos is inspiring and fun to follow on IG, and it was great to hear about a season of his faith journey (translated to book form here) with Enter Wild. I’m definitely encouraged to pray in new ways to connect even more with our Heavenly Father. So good.

[Kelli · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved this book. I’m glad I took the slow way to let things sink in, to do the work and the prompts, and it’s been really powerful how it helped guide some of my prayers and rewired some thinking in this weary season of life I’m in. Loved it and am a huge fan of Carlos’ vulnerability and leadership with his story and life.

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found Carlos' Instagram somewhere in the midst of the craziness that was 2020. All I can say is, he has changed so much of the way I look at the world and interact with other humans. Was this particular book as life changing? Perhaps not, but it has had an impact on the way I look at my relationship with God. Coming from a very in depth Catholic religious and schooling upbringing, some of what Carlos talks about from a Baptist/non-denom perspective can feel simplistic - but at the same time it is refreshing in its simplicity. No layers of theology, no wading through Church teaching vs what someone religious happened to say that one time & now it's taken as Ultimate Truth. Just you and God and digging to the root of what is keeping you from living freely in Him.

My star rating scale:
* DNF/finished & hated, would not recommend
** Poor writing and/or didn't care for the characters or plot, would not recommend
*** Not bad, probably wouldn't re-read but would recommend
**** Enjoyed it, would recommend, would re-read
***** I would buy this book and re-read it many times

[Shanda Warren · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve followed Carlos for over 10 years. Back in the day of the ragamuffin gospel blog. I’ve been struggling spiritually and this was exactly what I needed to start the year.

January 2020: listened to the audio from Libro.fm. I own the physical copy and I will definitely be going back and working my way through it slowly.

[Holly Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a game changer. God will mark you for life in amazing ways, if you let Him, as you respond to the Godly principles, honest answers and powerful prayers. My highest recommendation is this....I'm buying one for each of my kids, praying they walk boldly by Faith for Jesus all their days.

[Heath Vosberg · Rating 5 out of 5]

I listened to this one on audio book and it was full of great reminders and helpful insights. If you are feeling stuck and want some inspiration and direction on how to engage more with your faith and God, this is a great read/listen.

Carlos (the author) does the reading for this audio book, which brought his personal stories and anecdotes to life as he shared them.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

So I finished the book in 24hrs. All I can say is WOW! Carlos has done an amazing job with this one! The questions in the back of each chapter are thought-provoking and heart-piercing.

I couldn't put this book down and will go back and slowly read it again. I think I highlighted so much of the book I don't know how much of the text isn't yellow!

Grab a journal and go ahead and buy this one up! It is so good!

[Tiffany Mark · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is life changing. Read it. You will
Know this is true within the first chapter.

[Maura Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved this book! Carlos has an amazing way of leading and pointing back to God! I love the way his writing feels like a good friend is speaking truth to me. Kill the spider changed my life and now Enter wild has prompted a new journey!

[Juliette H.]

Since I have followed Carlos Whittaker on social media for some time now, I know he has the ability to share stories and wisdom in a way that makes you feel like you are sitting with him on his front porch. He shares God’s word in a way that is real and practical, and he shows you what faith lived out looks like in his daily life and within his family. I can say after reading Enter Wild that he has continued to do the same thing in a written message. This was like having a personal conversation with him over a cup of coffee.

While reading Enter Wild is an intimate look at what Carlos has faced and what he encountered by his interactions with the Holy Spirit, this is not a moment where he patted himself on the back and called attention to himself. Rather, this is an invitation to dive deeper and experience the freedom that he has seen first hand. Carlos challenges us and gives us specific questions at the end of each chapter so that we can have a clear plan and understanding of the possibilities that are there for each of us. As an individual and as a spouse and as a parent, I am particularly grateful for the journey that Enter Wild has begun for me.

[Pamela Hunter · Rating 5 out of 5]

In his book, Enter Wild, Carlos Whittaker begs the metaphorical question; are you a settler or an explorer?

Are you the settler who is content with the mediocre; go to church on Sunday, sometimes pray and read your bible, raise your kids like you were raised; always feeling a little empty and wanting? Striving for the next promotion or to keep up with the Jones? Yet cannot find the solution?

Or.

Are you the explorer digging deep into Gods word? Are you looking for resources to deepen and strengthen your relationship with Him. You know that He is the only one who is going to fill the emptiness and you are DYING to fill it.

I have great news! Carlos book is for both of you! It is NOT an easy read. It requires a bit of work. However, as I read it and did the work, (and continue to do the work with my counselor) I find that it is worth every bit of effort! Carlos shares his story with his trademark transparency, humor and wit. And while as long as I have known Carlos, I'd never call him less than an adventurer, I think that you will come to better understand my metaphor as you read Enter Wild.

[Julia · Rating 2 out of 5]

I received an ARC of this book in exchange for honest review. I like Carlos Whittaker and have enjoyed hearing him on several podcasts. This book though, was not for me. The premise is that God calls us to a WILD faith if abundant life and hearing His voice. I agree with that, but differed on the how. I felt that there were a few issues in the book:
• I felt that I was reading a sermon as opposed to a book much of the time. I know this is a difficult piece to achieve, but the book felt very preachy and I struggled with that.
• I had theological issues with Whittaker's approach to healing and hearing God's voice. Growing up in the Pentecostal tradition, I wholeheartedly believe in these things. However, I felt that he leaned into word of faith and some other practices I take theological issue with.

I appreciate the heart behind this book - to see Christians living full and abundant lives of faith. That is important. However, Carlos Whittaker and I would see the definition of that - and the road to get there very differently.

[José · Rating 5 out of 5]

Revisited Memories

Man. The whole time I was reading this book all I could think about is a missions trip I was on in 2006 and how we were encouraged to listen for God during our stay in Jamaica. We got some amazing devotional material to go through before heading out and I wish I could find it again. It really helped position us in a place to hear from God. We went to help a church build a new church building. They were meeting in a tiny shack. It wasn’t glamorous work, but man did we see God move and I whole heartedly believe it was due in part by being in position to hear Him and move alongside Him. Reading Enter Wild and thinking about that trip has made me realize how far away I am but yet how close He is to me and ready to guide me into the Wild. I’ve got work to do for sure, but I’m ready!

[Michael · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had a friend lend me this book and ask me to read it and let me know what I think about it. This is certainly not a book that I would have picked up on my own and Whittaker is not an author that I follow, but there were enjoyable parts of jumping into this. Whittaker is a gifted storyteller who writes in a very engaging way that makes you want to keep reading. He is very skilled at intertwining vulnerable stories from his own life to make points from Scripture. The main knock of the book is that he focuses on the result of spiritual transformation without speaking in much depth about the means of the transformation. You pick up some general things but by the end of the book, I felt more happy for his experience of spiritual renewal than I felt equipped for my own. But overall, it was an enjoyable read that gets you thinking about God’s work in your life, which is never a bad thing.

[Nita Barnes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Carlos has done it again! Enter Wild takes you deeper, deeper into the recesses of why you feel like God isn't listening or responding. This book has touched on so many levels for me including anxiety, depression, and flat out confidence in myself and my glory, and not so much in God's. The self-examination and reflection at the end of each chapter help you to dig up untruths and process them in a simple way, and subsequent chapter questions piggy back until you have a prayer constructed for your specific situation, truths, lies. A life-altering book that will leave you in awe of the Wild God has led you to.

[Jason · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an encouraging book that helps me to realize that I have been coasting for so long and God wants me to live my life more fully attuned to all that He is doing. It's not the most impactful and insightful book I've read on this idea but it came at the right time and that's a God move.

I have followed Carlos Whittaker for years (from the Ragamuffin Soul blog days to his record deal and now on his Instagram lives) and I respect him and will keep following him. This is a great introduction into his life if you haven't met him yet. Next check out his book, Kill the Spider, and then Moment Maker.

[Malinda Fugate · Rating 4 out of 5]

Though it was easy to get through this quickly, it left me thinking. Whittaker's story is intriguing and inspiring, though the idea that following steps will lead to the same results for the reader is problematic. Yes, he does clarify in the last few pages that God is not formulaic, but the impression you get as you walk through the guidance of each chapter is that if you do these things, you'll have amazing results. However, the concept of God being bigger than we imagine and tangible in our lives is solid, and Whittaker's suggestions can increase our closeness with the Lord. As always, hearing each other's God story is encouraging and deepens our understanding of Him.

[Melissa Ranae · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read Carlos Whittaker’s book “How To Human”. When I learned that he was someone who battled crippling anxiety, I wanted to read how he overcame his struggle to become a world traveler and keynote speaker. So I picked up “Enter Wild”.

Carlos writes like he speaks, and sometimes…for me…it’s almost too informal and more like a long blog.

However, Carlos is personable and shares what steps he took to get closer to God and also grow his faith.
They are practical steps for any Christian wanting to go deeper.

My favorite chapter was Chapter 8: Pray the Promise. Carlos states that most pray the problem instead of using God’s promise.

[Meagan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I intentionally read this book a little slower because I knew that I wanted to savor it. Enter Wild is Carlos at his best. I loved this book. It destroyed me, built me up, and encouraged me. His love for the Lord is evident. This book came at just the right season for me and I know that I will continue to go back and look at my notes and dog eared corners in the coming months and years. I am so thankful for this story. Thankful for Carlos. Thankful for his ability to tell the truth, encourage others, and point us toward Jesus.

[Courtney Birkbeck · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you follow Carlos on Instagram, you know he is a man of depth, of humor, of truth and of courage. His book is no different. You get to experience his truth and gain wisdom from each page. Enter Wild is about silencing the noise of the world and gaining a heavenly understanding of life. It's about reaching deeper and going deeper with Jesus and pushing aside outside distractions.

I definitely suggest this book to anyone who is struggling with a mediocre faith and wanting to find more meaning in their relationship with Jesus.

[Lecy Beth · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a faith-based book about how to lower the volume of your life so that you can hear God speaking. Carlos shares a lot of personal stories in this book, but the ones I found particularly useful were about his struggle with anxiety and how he was able to get through some of those most critical moments and restore the relationship with his wife and children. I was able to read it in one sitting, but it's packed with lots of useful information like reflection questions, Scriptures to read, and prayers to speak if you wanted to take your time and read this like a devotional. *Advance copy provided by the publisher in exchange for my honest review.

[Christy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Carlos has done it again with another book that encourages you and demolishes you so you can rebuild. Enter Wild is a journey about anxiety and hope. I like the author’s writing style as it is more like you are having a conversation with him (If you follow him on Instagram you know he is a good conversationalist!) that at times is so intimate you want to hide because you feel so seen if you deal with anxiety and feelings of hopelessness. I highly recommend this book if you are a believer and need a jolt to see things differently right now... especially in this world of the pandemic.

[Kristin · Rating 5 out of 5]

The content of this book is fire. 🔥 ✨🙌🏼 I’d recommend it to any Christian. Carlos is able to engage readers with depth and humor in such a conversational way. The book is easy to read, very conversational, yet also full of powerful truth and questions that will make you think and process with God along the way. The prayers included are powerful! I read this at the perfect time in my life and I’m grateful for the confirmations, challenges, and invitations to go deeper it brought me! This will be a book I pull back off the shelf and return to again. 🧡