This quote emphasizes the power and purpose of art, specifically painting, as a tool for expressing profound thoughts, challenging norms, and inciting change rather than just being a mere decorative piece. Picasso is highlighting the potential of art as a weapon – not in the violent sense, but as a means to combat ignorance, apathy, and conformity.

When Picasso says painting is "an instrument of war," he is referring to the struggle against the status quo, against unexamined life, against the mundane and superficial. It’s a war against silence, where artists use their works to give voice to the voiceless, to question, to provoke, to disturb, and to inspire.

In today’s world, we see this concept playing out in various forms of art being used to raise awareness about social issues, from racial injustice to climate change. Artists use their work to draw attention, start conversations, and even mobilize people towards action. Graffiti on city walls, for instance, often serves as a form of protest or as a way to bring attention to overlooked issues.

In terms of personal development, the idea behind this quote could be applied in the way we approach our passions or careers. It encourages us to see beyond the superficial value of our work and recognize the potential impact it can have. Whether we are artists, writers, scientists, or educators, our work is not just to fill space or time. It can be a tool to challenge, to question, to innovate, and to bring about change. Just like a painting is not merely a decoration, our work is not just a job – it’s a platform, an opportunity, and indeed, an "instrument of war" in the battle for progress and enlightenment.