Proverbs 17:14 in the World English Bible
The beginning of strife is like breaching a dam, therefore stop contention before quarreling breaks out.
Context
13 Whoso rewardeth evil for good, evil shall not depart from his house.
14 The beginning of strife is as when one letteth out water: therefore leave off contention, before it be meddled with.
15 He that justifieth the wicked, and he that condemneth the just, even they both are abomination to the LORD.