What is the ruling on a man's obedience to Allah in order to be a good role model for his children, despite his shortcomings before marriage?

A man's shortcomings in acts of obedience do not prevent him from rectifying what he has corrupted and making up for what he has missed. Repentance is obligatory, and Allah accepts it from His servant as long as he has not reached the death rattle, and He transforms evil deeds into good ones. For a man to intend, through his righteousness, to be a good role model for his children, this is a good intention and a responsibility upon him. However, he must first strive to save himself. From this primary objective, other good intentions branch out. Allah Almighty says: "O you who have believed, protect yourselves and your families from a Fire whose fuel is people and stones, over which are angels, harsh and severe; they do not disobey Allah in what He commands them but do what they are commanded."