Ben Sira 22:24

24 The vapor and smoke of the furnace precede the fire; so insults precede bloodshed.

Ben Sira 22:24 In-Context

22 If you open your mouth against your friend, do not worry, for reconciliation is possible. But as for reviling, arrogance, disclosure of secrets, or a treacherous blow— in these cases any friend will take to flight.

23 Gain the trust of your neighbor in his poverty, so that you may rejoice with him in his prosperity. Stand by him in time of distress, so that you may share with him in his inheritance.

24 The vapor and smoke of the furnace precede the fire; so insults precede bloodshed.

25 I am not ashamed to shelter a friend, and I will not hide from him.

26 But if harm should come to me because of him, whoever hears of it will beware of him.